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Cape Canaveral
 Cape Canaveral Map of Cape Canaveral Credit: © Mark Wade |
AKA: Cape Kennedy;Kennedy Space Center;KSC;Patrick AFB;Spaceport Florida. First Launch: 1950-07-24. Last Launch: 2014-08-05. Number: 5044 . Location: Florida. Longitude: -80.56 deg. Latitude: 28.47 deg. Apogee: 3.00 km (1.80 mi).
Spaceport Florida consisted of one launch complex, including a pad and a remote control center; a small payload preparation facility; and an RLV support facility. The Florida Space Authority invested over $500 million to upgrade launch sites, build an RLV support complex adjacent to the Shuttle Landing Facility, develop a new space operations support complex, and build a state-of-the-art research facility at Kennedy Space Center.
Major planned additions to the Cape Canaveral complexes that were never completed included:
- Four Nova-class booster pads north of the Saturn complex, with the Nova Vertical Assembly Building and its port located at the northernmost tip of the strip of land next to the so-called 'Mosquito Lagoon' (now a national seashore and wildlife refuge). South of the Nova VAB on this strip of land there were also plans for a Solid Rocket Booster check-out / storage building.
- The unbuilt LC-42, which was intended to be used by Titan 3 and 4 rockets. Its would have branched to the north of the Titan causeway., symmetrical to LC-40. It is doubtful that LC-42 will ever be built because it would pose a safety problem to operations from LC-39A.
- A third Saturn 5 pad. LC-39C was the original designation for the pad closest to the Vertical Assembly Building, and LC-39A for the farthest of the three planned pads. When it was decided not to build the third launch pad LC-39C was renamed LC-39A.
Minimum Inclination: 28.0 degrees. Maximum Inclination: 57.0 degrees.
In October 1946, the Armed Forces Joint Research and Development Board created a committee to select an over-water test range for long-range missiles. The Committee on Long Range Proving Grounds initially selected California s El Centro Marine Corps Base but abandoned the site after a breakdown in talks with the Mexican Government regarding sovereignty rights for needed tracking stations. Next, the committee looked at the recently deactivated Banana River Naval Air Station located on Florida's east coast. Featuring a climate allowing year-round operations, isolation, government-owned property, an existing infrastructure associated with a naval air station, and islands down-range that would allow for tracking facilities, the area near Cape Canaveral became the committee's final selection for what would become America's spaceport.
In May 1949, President Truman authorized the establishment of a joint long-range proving ground at the eastern Florida site and a month later the Banana River Naval Air Station was reactivated. In August 1950, the facility became Patrick AFB, home to the Air Force Missile Test Center (AFMTC).
Initial responsibility for construction at the Cape and Patrick AFB fell to the Jacksonville District of the Corps of Engineers. Tasked in May 1950 with building the pad for the first missile launch at the Cape, the District succeeded in having the facility ready in time for the July 24 lift-off of a V-2 with a WAC Corporal upper stage (missile test number Bumper No. 8).
Throughout the 1950s, the Jacksonville District supervised the construction of missile service gantries, control bunkers, assembly and research buildings, and other support structures. These facilities supported research, development, testing, and evaluation for such air-breathing weapons as Matador, Snark, Mace, and BOMARC.3 In addition, the Corps built a deep-water port to allow the delivery of large components.
The Matador, first launched from the Cape on June 20, 1951, became the first Cape-tested weapon to enter the Air Force operational inventory. From 1951 to 1962, 286 Matadors lifted off into the Atlantic sky from Complexes 1-3. Another air-breathing missile to undergo extensive testing at AFTMC was the Snark. From August 29, 1951, to December 5, 1960, 97 Snarks were tested. As a follow-on to the Matador, the Martin Company produced the Mace, which underwent testing at the Cape between 1959 and
a Snark and BOMARC are discussed in Part I. Mace and Matador were built by the Martin Company as intermediate-range cruise missiles for overseas deployment. The two missiles resembled swept-wing fighter planes without cockpits.
Florida Sites
1962. Testing for the BOMARC area defense weapon began at the Cape and later continued at Eglin AFB, Florida. One AFMTC-tested long-range missile that never deployed, the Navaho, pioneered inertial guidance and large rocket engine technology that would find its way into IRBMs and ICBMs.
On August 30, 1953, the Army's Redstone became the first ballistic missile to lift off from the Cape. Two years later, the Army began testing to support development of its Jupiter IRBM. In May 1957, a Jupiter prototype launched from the Cape recorded a flight of 1,050 miles. Meanwhile, the Air Force began testing its Thor IRBM at the Florida facility in January 1957. The first successful Thor launch occurred the following October.
Cape Canaveral played a critical role in ICBM development. Atlas models A through F underwent constant testing in the late 1950s as did the Titan I. Later, the Air Force also tested its Titan II and Minuteman ICBMs at the Cape. In addition, the Navy constructed and used Cape facilities to test its sea-launched ballistic missiles. Of course Cape Canaveral became best known for its role in America's manned space program.
Because of the growth of the space program, on May 1, 1963, the Corps of Engineers created a new Canaveral District to supervise Cape construction. Eight years later, this District was disestablished with functions being assumed by a newly created Florida office of the Mobile District.
| Cape Canaveral LC3 X-17, V-2, Polaris, Bomarc launch complex. This complex was built to support the Bomarc interceptor missile program, but also supported Bumper, Jason, Redstone, X-17 and Polaris ballistic missile operations. The Air Force accepted Complex 3 in November 1951. The location had already supported the Cape's first major launch - Bumper 8 - on 24 July 1950. Following the last Bomarc launch in April 1960, some Bomarc support facilities were converted into a medical support area for Project Mercury. Later the complex supported tethered aerostat programs from 1983 through 1989. |
| Cape Canaveral LA Snark, Matador, Lark launch area. |
| Cape Canaveral LC4 Redstone, Matador, Bomarc launch complex. This complex was built to support the Bomarc interceptor missile program, but also supported Bumper, Jason, Redstone, X-17 and Polaris ballistic missile operations. The Air Force accepted Complex 4 in 1952. Following the last Bomarc launch in April 1960, some Bomarc support facilities were converted into a medical support area for Project Mercury. Later the complex supported tethered aerostat programs from 1983 through 1989. |
| Cape Canaveral LC2 Snark launch complex. This complex was constructed for the Snark winged missile program, and may have supported some Matador combat training launches in the 1950s. The Air Force accepted the sites in 1953, and the complexes continued to support Snark launches through 5 December 1960. The pad served as a helicopter pad for the Mercury manned program in the early 1960s, and supported tethered aerostat (balloon) programs from 1983 through 1989. |
| Cape Canaveral LC6 Redstone, Jupiter launch complex. Pad 6 supported its first Redstone launch on 20 April 1955, three months before the complex was finally accepted by the U.S. Government. In addition to Redstone and Jupiter launches, the complex supported Explorer and Pioneer missions and all six Redstone /Mercury suborbital flights. On 31 January 1964, Complexes 5 and 6 were reassigned to become part of the USAF Space Museum. |
| Cape Canaveral RW30/12 Navaho, Matador launch complex. Skid Strip, Cape Canaveral Air Station |
| Cape Canaveral LC5 Redstone, Jupiter launch complex. Pad 5 supported its first Jupiter A launch on 19 July 1956. In addition to Redstone and Jupiter launches, the complex supported Explorer and Pioneer missions and all six Redstone /Mercury suborbital flights. On 31 January 1964, Complexes 5 and 6 were reassigned to become part of the USAF Space Museum. |
| Cape Canaveral LC9 Navaho launch complex. The complex was built to support the Navaho winged intercontinental missile program. The Air Force accepted both sites 9 and 10 on 29 June 1956. Both complexes were demolished in 1959 to make room for Minuteman complexes 31 and 32. |
| Cape Canaveral LC18A Viking, Vanguard, Scout launch complex. The LC18 complex included two launch pads 18A and 18B. Pad 18A was used to launch 14 Vanguard space vehicles for NASA and the U.S. Navy between 8 December 1956 and 19 September 1959. Following termination of the Vanguard program, Pad 18A supported ten Blue Scout Junior launches for the Air Force between 21 September 1960 and 10 June 1965. Complex 18 was deactivated on 1 February 1967. |
| Cape Canaveral LC17B Delta launch complex. Part of a dual launch pad complex built for the Thor ballistic missile program in 1956. Upgraded over the decades for use with Thor, Delta, Delta II, and Delta III launch vehicles, it remained in use for over half a century. |
| Cape Canaveral LC14 Atlas launch complex. The complex was built for the Atlas ballistic missile program. Launch sites 11 to 14 were accepted between August 1957 and mid-April 1958. After its final Atlas missile launch, Complex 14 was converted into an Atlas /Agena launch complex, and later turned over to NASA. Complex 14 supported 32 Atlas and Atlas/Agena missions, including four manned Mercury missions and seven unmanned Gemini target vehicle launches. Complexes 11, 12 and 14 were deactivated in 1967. Complex 14 and the gantry on Complex 13 were declared national historic landmarks in April 1984. |
| Cape Canaveral LC1 Snark launch complex. This complex was constructed for the Snark winged missile program, and may have supported some Matador combat training launches in the 1950s. The Air Force accepted the sites in 1953, and the complexes continued to support Snark launches through 5 December 1960. The pad served as a helicopter pad for the Mercury manned program in the early 1960s, and supported tethered aerostat (balloon) programs from 1983 through 1989. |
| Cape Canaveral LC26A Redstone, Jupiter launch complex. The LC-26 dual launch pad complex was constructed for the U.S. Army's Redstone and Jupiter missile programs in 1956-1957. At least 36 Redstone, Jupiter, Jupiter C and Juno II launches were conducted 1957-1964. |
| Cape Canaveral LC17A Delta launch complex. Part of a dual launch pad complex built for the Thor ballistic missile program in 1956. Pad 17A supported Thor, Delta, and Delta II launches into the 21st Century. |
| Cape Canaveral LC26B Jupiter launch complex. The LC-26 dual launch pad complex was constructed for the U.S. Army's Redstone and Jupiter missile programs in 1956-1957. At least 36 Redstone, Jupiter, Jupiter C and Juno II launches were conducted 1957-1964. |
| Cape Canaveral LC12 Atlas launch complex. The complex was built for the Atlas ballistic missile program. Launch sites 11 to 14 were accepted between August 1957 and mid-April 1958. Complex 12 supported its first Atlas launch on 10 January 1958, and it supported nine Ranger missions and four Mariner missions between 12 August 1961 and 15 June 1967. Complexes 11, 12 and 14 were deactivated in 1967, and Complex 13 was deactivated in April 1978. |
| Cape Canaveral LC25A X-17, Polaris launch complex. Complex 25 was built to support the U.S. Navy's Polaris submarine ballistic missile program. The Navy occupied pad 25A in December 1957. Complex 25 supported 68 Polaris missile launches between 18 April 1958 and 6 March 1965. Pads 25A and 25B were dismantled in September 1969. |
| Cape Canaveral LC18B Scout, Delta launch complex. The LC18 complex included two launch pads 18A and 18B. Pad 18B supported 17 Thor missile launches between 4 June 1958 and 1 March 1960. Pad 18B supported half a dozen Blue Scout I, Blue Scout II and Scout missions between 7 January 1961 and 13 April 1962. Complex 18 was deactivated on 1 February 1967. |
| Cape Canaveral LC11 Atlas launch complex. The complex was built for the Atlas ballistic missile program. Launch sites 11 to 14 were accepted between August 1957 and mid-April 1958. Complex 11 supported 28 Atlas launches and five Atlas Advanced Ballistic Reentry System flights between 19 July 1958 and 2 April 1964. Complexes 11, 12 and 14 were deactivated in 1967. |
| Cape Canaveral LC13 Atlas launch complex. Originally built in 1958 for the Atlas ballistic missile program. |
| Cape Canaveral LC10 Navaho, Jason, Draco launch complex. The complex was built to support the Navaho winged intercontinental missile program. The Air Force accepted both sites 9 and 10 on 29 June 1956. Both complexes were demolished in 1959 to make room for Minuteman complexes 31 and 32. |
| Cape Canaveral LC4A Bomarc launch complex. This complex was built to support the Bomarc interceptor missile program, but also supported Bumper, Jason, Redstone, X-17 and Polaris ballistic missile operations. The Air Force accepted Complex 4 in 1952. Following the last Bomarc launch in April 1960, some Bomarc support facilities were converted into a medical support area for Project Mercury. Later the complex supported tethered aerostat programs from 1983 through 1989. |
| Cape Canaveral AMR DZ Launch point used for drop of air-launched missiles down the Atlantic Missile Range. |
| Cape Canaveral LC22 Mace launch complex. Cruise missile launch complex. Supported 20 Bull Goose and Goose missile launches 1957-1958. Rebuilt to support 44 Mace missile launches 1959-1963. |
| Cape Canaveral LC43 Viper, Loki, Hopi, Arcas, Rocketsonde launch complex. |
| Cape Canaveral LC15 Titan launch complex. Complexes 15, 16, 19, and 20 were built for the Titan ballistic missile program. The sites were accepted by the U.S. Government between February and mid-September 1959. All four sites supported Titan I launches in 1959 and the early 1960s, and complexes 15 and 16 supported Titan II launches between 16 March 1962 and 10 April 1964. Complex 15 was deactivated in March 1967, and it was dismantled three months later. |
| Cape Canaveral LC19 Titan launch complex. Complexes 15, 16, 19, and 20 were built for the Titan ballistic missile program. The sites were accepted by the U.S. Government between February and mid-September 1959. All four sites supported Titan I launches in 1959 and the early 1960s. In 1962 and 1963, Complex 19 was converted into the space program's only manned Titan II/Gemini launch complex. It supported two unmanned and ten manned Gemini missions between 8 April 1964 and 16 November 1966. Complex 19 was deactivated on 10 April 1967, and it was declared a national historic landmark in April 1984. |
| Cape Canaveral LC25B Polaris launch complex. Complex 25 was built to support the U.S. Navy's Polaris submarine ballistic missile program. The Navy occupied pad 25B in January 1958. Pads 25A and 25B were dismantled in September 1969. |
| Cape Canaveral LC29A Polaris launch complex. Complex 29 was built to support the U.S. Navy's Polaris submarine ballistic missile program. Construction began in August 1958. The Navy occupied the site in July 1959, and Pad 29A supported 47 Polaris launches between 21 September 1959 and 2 November 1967. The complex was placed on standby status in 1968, and it was upgraded to support the British Chevaline submarine ballistic missile program in the mid 1970s. Complex 29 supported ten Chevaline launches between 12 September 1977 and 20 May 1980. The site was deactivated in 1980. |
| Cape Canaveral LC16 Titan, Pershing launch complex. Originally built for the Titan ballistic missile program in 1959. Supported Titan I and II launches from 1959 to 1964. Reassigned to NASA in 1965 for static firings of the Apollo service module propulsion engine. Deactivated in 1969, later reassigned to the U.S. Army, supported 128 Pershing ballistic missile launches 1974 -1988. Deactivated in accordance with the Intermediate Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. |
| Cape Canaveral LC32A Complexes 31 and 32 were built between July 1959 and July 1960 to support the Air Force's Minuteman missile program. Each complex had one blockhouse and two launch pads. The two "A" pads were constructed as conventional flat pads, and the two "B" pads were built as ballistic missile silos. The sites were modified subsequently to support later versions of the Minuteman missile. In all, 92 Minuteman I, II and III missiles were launched from the complexes between 1 February 1961 and 15 December 1970. |
| Cape Canaveral LC20 Titan, Super Chief, Loki, Prospector, Aries launch complex. Complexes 15, 16, 19, and 20 were built for the Titan ballistic missile program. The sites were accepted by the U.S. Government between February and mid-September 1959. All four sites supported Titan I launches in 1959 and the early 1960s. Complex 20 was modified to support four Titan IIIA flights which took place between 1 September 1964 and 7 May 1965. The site was deactivated in April 1967, but it got a new lease on life toward the end of the 1980s. Complex 20 was selected for the Starbird program in 1987, and it supported a Starbird launch on 18 December 1990. Between 18 June 1991 and 29 May 1993, the complex supported the commercial Joust-1 launch and four Red Tigress and Red Tigress II missions sponsored by the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization. Much of Complex 20's electronic equipment and both of its rail launchers were removed in 1995, rendering the site inactive for a time. |
| Cape Canaveral LC42 Complexes 40 and 41 were constructed as part of a $39 million project to build an Integrate-Transfer-Launch (ITL) facility at the north end of Cape Canaveral in the early 1960s. An additional LC-42 was planned at the ITL to support ambitious military space projects that never materialized. It was intended to be used by Titan 3 rockets, and would have branched to the north of the Titan causeway, symmetrical to LC-40. It is doubtful that LC-42 would actually have been built because it would pose a safety problem to operations from LC-39A. |
| Cape Canaveral LC30 Pershing launch complex. This complex was built as a dual launch pad facility to support the U.S. Army's Pershing missile program in the early 1960s. The complex was occupied by the Army on 8 January 1960. Following completion of the Pershing test flight program, the mobile gantry on Complex 26 was dismantled in February 1968. Pershing 1A follow-on tests began at Complex 31 on 21 February 1973. |
| Cape Canaveral LC31A Pershing, Minuteman, M55E1 launch complex. Built 1959-1960 to support the Air Force's Minuteman missile program. In 1973 used briefly for the Army's Pershing 1A follow-on testing program. |
| Cape Canaveral LC32B Minuteman launch silo. Complexes 31 and 32 were built between July 1959 and July 1960 to support the Air Force's Minuteman missile program. Each complex had one blockhouse and two launch pads. The two "A" pads were constructed as conventional flat pads, and the two "B" pads were built as ballistic missile silos. The sites were modified subsequently to support later versions of the Minuteman missile. Pad 32B supported the first Minuteman II and III launches on 24 September 1964 and 16 August 1968 respectively. In all, 92 Minuteman I, II and III missiles were launched from the complexes between 1 February 1961 and 15 December 1970. |
| Cape Canaveral LC34 Saturn I launch complex. Saturn I and IB program launch complex, built 1959-1961. Four Saturn I and three Saturn IB vehicles were launched from Complex 34 between 27 October 1961 and 12 October 1968. |
| Cape Canaveral LC31B Minuteman launch silo. Complexes 31 and 32 were built between July 1959 and July 1960 to support the Air Force's Minuteman missile program. Each complex had one blockhouse and two launch pads. The two "A" pads were constructed as conventional flat pads, and the two "B" pads were built as ballistic missile silos. The sites were modified subsequently to support later versions of the Minuteman missile. In all, 92 Minuteman I, II and III missiles were launched from the complexes between 1 February 1961 and 15 December 1970. |
| Cape Canaveral LC36A Atlas launch complex. Launch site built in 1960 for NASA's Atlas/Centaur development program, and used for launches of that launch vehicle until its retirement. |
| Cape Canaveral LC21/1 Mace launch complex. Launcher 1. In the mid-1950s, a launch area near the Cape Lighthouse was set aside for complexes 21 and 22 to support the Air Force's winged Bull Goose decoy missile project. Construction started in 1956, and the Air Force accepted both complexes on 26 February 1957. In 1959 and 1960, the sites were rebuilt to support Mace winged cruise missile launches. The last Mace was launched in 1963, and the complexes remained dormant pending reassignment to another program. Both complexes were finally deactivated in the early 1970s. |
| Cape Canaveral LC21/2 Mace launch complex. Launcher 2. In the mid-1950s, a launch area near the Cape Lighthouse was set aside for complexes 21 and 22 to support the Air Force's winged Bull Goose decoy missile project. Construction started in 1956, and the Air Force accepted both complexes on 26 February 1957. In 1959 and 1960, the sites were rebuilt to support Mace winged cruise missile launches. The last Mace was launched in 1963, and the complexes remained dormant pending reassignment to another program. Both complexes were finally deactivated in the early 1970s. |
| Cape Canaveral LC37A Complex 37 was built in 1962 for Saturn I launches, and it was occupied by NASA in January 1963. Complex 37A was never used for a launch. Complexes 34 and 37 were mothballed in November 1971, and their service structures were scrapped in April 1972. NASA retained control of both complexes, and both sites became NASA tour stops. |
| Cape Canaveral LC37B Saturn I, Delta IV launch complex. Complexes 34 and 37 were designed to support NASA's Saturn I and Saturn IB program. Complex 37 was built in 1962, and it was occupied by NASA in January 1963. Complex 37 supported eight Saturn I and Saturn IB missions, including the first flight of an unmanned Apollo lunar module, between 29 January 1964 and 23 January 1968. Complexes 34 and 37 were mothballed in November 1971, and their service structures were scrapped in April 1972. NASA retained control of both complexes, and both sites became NASA tour stops. LC37B was rebuilt in 2001 for the Delta IV booster and designated SLC37. |
| Cape Canaveral LC40 Titan launch complex. Constructed as part of the Titan Integrate-Transfer-Launch (ITL) facility at the north end of Cape Canaveral in the early 1960s. Supported a wide variety of military space missions involving Titan IIIC, Titan 34D and Titan IV vehicles. |
| Cape Canaveral LC36B Atlas V, Atlas launch complex. Atlas Centaur launch pad, in service from 1964 until the retirement of the launch vehicle. |
| Cape Canaveral LC41 Titan, Atlas V launch complex. Complexes 40 and 41 were constructed as part of the Integrate-Transfer-Launch (ITL) Titan launch facility at the north end of Cape Canaveral in the early 1960s. Over the next three decades, the complexes supported a wide variety of military space missions involving Titan IIIC, Titan 34D and Titan IV. Complex 41 was deactivated at the end of 1977, then upgraded for the Titan IV program in the 1986-88 period. In October 1999, Complex 41 was demolished with high explosives in order for a new pad for launch of the Atlas 5 rocket to be erected. |
| Cape Canaveral LC39A Shuttle, Saturn V launch complex. LC39A and LC39B, part of the Kennedy Space Center, were built on Merritt Island (north/northwest of the Cape) to support the Saturn V/Apollo lunar landing program. The sites were modified in the last half of the 1970s to support the manned Space Shuttle program. Construction began in December 1963. Complex 39A was completed on 4 October 1965. Complex 39A supported two unmanned and nine manned Saturn V/Apollo missions between 9 November 1967 and 8 December 1972. The site also supported the launch of the Skylab space station on 14 May 1973. Both complexes were modified to support Space Shuttle missions later on. Complex 39A supported the first Space Shuttle launch on 12 April 1981. |
| Cape Canaveral LC25C Trident, Poseidon launch complex. Complex 25 supported the U.S. Navy's submarine ballistic missile programs. Pads 25C and 25D were built in 1967 to support the Navy's Poseidon ballistic missile program. Seventeen Poseidons were launched from pads 25C and 25D between 16 August 1968 and 30 June 1970. Pad 25C supported the Cape's first Trident I ballistic missile launch on 18 January 1977. Seventeen more Trident I missiles were launched from Pad 25C between 15 February 1977 and 24 January 1979. Complex 25 was inactivated and dismantled in 1979. |
| Cape Canaveral LC39B Shuttle, Saturn V, Saturn I launch complex. LC39A and LC39B, part of the Kennedy Space Center, were built on Merritt Island (north/northwest of the Cape) to support the Saturn V/Apollo lunar landing program in 1963-1966. The sites were modified in the last half of the 1970s to support the manned Space Shuttle program. |
| Cape Canaveral LC25D Poseidon launch complex. Complex 25 supported the U.S. Navy's submarine ballistic missile programs. Pads 25C and 25D were built in 1967 to support the Navy's Poseidon ballistic missile program. Complex 25 was inactivated and dismantled in 1979. |
| Cape Canaveral LC39D If NASA had received funding for its schemes for manned Mars expeditions and enormous space stations in the 1970's, two additional pads would have been built at LC39 for advanced versions of the Saturn V. LC39D would have been west of the also-unbuilt LC39C. |
| Cape Canaveral LC39E If NASA had received funding for its schemes for manned Mars expeditions and enormous space stations in the 1970's, two additional pads would have been built at LC39 for advanced versions of the Saturn V. LC39E would have been northwest of the also-unbuilt LC39C. |
| Cape Canaveral LC29B Polaris launch complex. Complex 29 was built to support the U.S. Navy's Polaris submarine ballistic missile program. Construction began in August 1958. The Navy occupied the site in July 1959. The complex was placed on standby status in 1968, and it was upgraded to support the British Chevaline submarine ballistic missile program in the mid 1970s. The site was deactivated in 1980. |
| Cape Canaveral LC47 Loki, Rocketsonde launch complex. Complex 47 was used to support weather rocket launches at the Cape. In March 1984, weather rocket operations were relocated from Complex 43 to Complex 47 to make room for the construction of Complex 46. In addition to weather rocket launches, Complex 47 was designated part of Spaceport Florida and supported the commercial launch of a single-stage solid rocket (LOFT-1) in November 1988. The site also supported a student suborbital launch of a Super Loki weather rocket in October 1992. |
| Cape Canaveral LC46 Trident, Athena launch complex. This complex was built as part of the U.S. Navy's Trident II ballistic missile effort at the Cape. Construction was underway in February 1984, and the complex was ordnance-certified in November 1986. Complex 46 supported the Cape's first Trident II test missile launch on 15 January 1987. Eighteen more Trident IIs were launched from the site between 17 March 1987 and 27 January 1989. As Trident launch operations moved out to sea later in 1989, the complex was placed on standby status awaiting special Trident II test requirements. No new requirements surfaced in the 1990s, but the Spaceport Florida Authority (SFA) won $4,890,000 in Air Force grants to redesign Complex 46 to handle small commercial space launch operations (e.g., Lockheed Martin's new LMLV-2 space launch vehicle). |
| Cape Canaveral RW15/33 Shuttle Landing Facility, NASA Kennedy Space Center |
| Mayport DZ Air-launched rocket drop zone. Mayport, Florida, Warning Area, North Atlantic Ocean. |
| Cape Canaveral SLC41 Cape Canaveral SLC41 |
| Cape Canaveral RW31/13 Cape Canaveral skid strip. |
| Cape Canaveral SLC17 Cape Canaveral SLC17 |
| Cape Canaveral LC39 Cape Canaveral LC39 |
| Cape Canaveral LC39C This complex would have been part of the Kennedy Space Center, on Merritt Island (north/northwest of the Cape), and supported the Saturn V/Apollo lunar landing program. However this third Saturn V pad was never built. LC-39C was the original designation for the pad closest to the Vertical Assembly Building, and LC-39A for the farthest of the three planned pads. When it was decided not to build the third launch pad, LC-39C was renamed LC-39A. |
| Cape Canaveral ETR Launch area for submarine-launched ballistic missiles down the Eastern Test Range. |
Family: Orbital Launch Site, Tomahawk Sandia. Country: USA. Spacecraft: Comstar, UHF, AEHF, Apollo Lunar Landing, Vanguard 1, Explorer A, Vanguard 2, Explorer B, Pioneer 0-1-2, Explorer C, Beacon 1, Pioneer 3-4, Score, Vanguard 3, Mercury, S-1, S-2, Transit, Pioneer P 3, Apollo LM, Midas, Pioneer 5, S-46, TIROS, GRAB, Echo, Apollo CSM, Courier, S-30, Lofti, P-14, Gemini, S-15, Injun, EPE, Ranger 1-2, Radio Test Spacecraft, TRAAC, Oscar, Lofti 2, SECOR, SURCAL, Ranger 3-4-5, OSO, Ariel, Anna, Telstar, Mariner 1-2, ERS, Relay, Syncom, SSF, AE, TRS, Vela, IMP, Surveyor, Jupiter nose cone, Ranger 6-7-8-9, BE, OGO, Mariner 3-4, OV1, LES, Pegasus satellite, Intelsat 1, LCS, OV2, Gemini Agena Target Vehicle, GEOS, Pioneer 6-7-8-9-E, OAO, Atlas Target Docking Adapter, GGTS, IDCSP, Lunar Orbiter, TOS, Intelsat 2, MOL, OV4, ATS-1, Biosatellite, ATS-2, Advanced Vela, OV5, Mariner 5, DODGE, ATS-3, TTS, Solrad, RAE, Canyon, ATS-4, Intelsat 3, HEOS, TACSAT, Mariner 6-7, PAC, ATS-5, TETR, NATO 1, Rhyolite, DSP, Intelsat 4, Mariner 8-9, PFS, DSCS II, Pioneer 10-11, HS 333, Skylab, Mariner 10, Skynet, Sphinx, Viking, SMS, ATS-6, Helios, Symphonie, Apollo ASTP Docking Module, Spacebus 100, Intelsat 4A, GOES, AS 1000, CTS, Marisat, NATO 3, LAGEOS, ESA-Geos, Himawari, HEAO, Voyager, Sirio, ECS/OTS, ISEE, Meteosat, CS-1, IUE, FLTSATCOM, Yuri, Pioneer 12, Chalet, Pioneer 13, Anik satellite, SCATHA, SMM, HS 376, Intelsat 5, Columbia, Insat 1, AS 3000, DSCS III, Challenger, TDRS, SPAS, Spacelab, IRT, LDEF, AMPTE, Discovery, HS 381, ERBS, Magnum, ISS, Intelsat 5A, NUSAT, Spartan, PDP, ASC, Atlantis, GLOMR, AS 4000, OEX Target, Mir, SDI, Eurostar 2000, Lacrosse (satellite), GPS Block 2 and 2A, HS 393, Magellan, FS-1300, SDS-2, Galileo orbiter, Galileo probe, HS 601, LACE, RME, Misty, HST, ROSAT, NOSS-2, NOSS-2 subsatellite, CRRES, Ulysses, Eurostar 1000, AS 5000, GRO, AFP-675, CRO, IBSS, MPEC, Losat, UARS, Endeavour, EUVE, DUVE, Geotail, Eureca, Mars Observer, CTA, SEDS, Spacehab, PMG, ACTS, AS 7000, BremSat, ODERACS, Milstar, GOES-Next, Trumpet, Mercury ELINT, Wind, Advanced Orion, MicroSat-100, WSF, Mir-Shuttle Docking Module, SOHO, XTE, OAST-Flyer, NEAR, TSS, SAX, IAE satellite, PAMS, Spacebus 3000, AS 2100, Mars Global Surveyor, ORFEUS, Mars Pathfinder, GPS Block 2R, LM 700, ACE, Cassini, Huygens, Falcon Gold, AERCam, Lunar Prospector, CAPRICORN, Globalstar, Deep Space 1, SEDSAT, SAC-A, ISS Unity, MightySat 1, MCO, Mars Polar Lander, ROCSAT, Stardust, Starshine, FUSE, Chandra, HS 702, FalconSat, SDS-3, Mars Odyssey, GeoLITE, MAP, Genesis, Simplesat, NOSS-3, Contour, MEPSI, XSS, MER, Cubesat, SIRTF, Messenger, Swift, 3CSat, Deep Impact, Eurostar 3000, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, New Horizons, Mitex, Stereo, Themis, Midstar, Orbital Express Astro, RS-300, STPSat, Phoenix, Dawn, C/NOFS, GLAST, SDO, Orion. Flights: Mercury MA-6, Mercury MA-7, Mercury MA-8, Mercury MA-9, Gemini 3, Gemini 4, Gemini 5, Gemini 7, Gemini 6, Gemini 8, Gemini 9, Gemini 10, Gemini 11, Gemini 12, Apollo 7, Apollo 8, Apollo 9, Apollo 10, Apollo 11, Apollo 12, Apollo 13, Apollo 14, Apollo 15, Apollo 16, Apollo 17, Skylab 2, Skylab 3, Skylab 4, Apollo (ASTP), STS-1, STS-2, STS-3, STS-4, STS-5, STS-6, STS-7, STS-8, STS-9, STS-41-B, STS-41-C, STS-41-D, STS-41-G, STS-51-A, STS-51-C, STS-51-D, STS-51-B, STS-51-G, STS-51-F, STS-51-I, STS-51-J, STS-61-A, STS-61-B, STS-61-C, STS-51-L, STS-26, STS-27, STS-29, STS-30, STS-28, STS-34, STS-33, STS-32, STS-36, STS-31, STS-41, STS-38, STS-35, STS-37, STS-39, STS-40, STS-43, STS-48, STS-44, STS-42, STS-45, STS-49, STS-50, STS-46, STS-47, STS-52, STS-53, STS-54, STS-56, STS-55, STS-57, STS-51, STS-58, STS-61, STS-60, STS-62, STS-59, STS-65, STS-64, STS-68, STS-66, STS-63, STS-67, STS-71, STS-70, STS-69, STS-73, STS-74, STS-72, STS-75, STS-76, STS-77, STS-78, STS-79, STS-80, STS-81, STS-82, STS-83, STS-84, STS-94, STS-85, STS-86, STS-87, STS-89, STS-90, STS-91, STS-95, STS-88, STS-96, STS-93, STS-103, STS-99, STS-101, STS-106, STS-92, STS-97, STS-98, STS-102, STS-100, STS-104, STS-105, STS-108, STS-109, STS-110, STS-111, STS-112, STS-113, STS-107, STS-114, STS-121, STS-115, STS-116, STS-117, STS-118, STS-120, STS-122, STS-123, STS-124, STS-126, STS-119, STS-125, STS-127, STS-128, STS-129, STS-130, STS-131, STS-132, STS-133, STS-134. Launch Vehicles: V-2, Navaho, Bumper-WAC, Matador, Nike, Navaho X-10, Navaho G-26, Lark, MX-775, Viking Type 9, Bomarc, Hermes A-2, Snark, Redstone, Jupiter C, Titan I, X-17 QTV, X-17 HTV, Jupiter IRBM, X-17, Jupiter A, Asp, Loki Dart, Atlas Able, Polaris A1, Thor DM-18, Atlas B, Nike Asp, Atlas A, Vanguard, Atlas C, Polaris TV, Nike Apache, Thor Able, Bold Orion 1, Titan II, Jason sounding rocket, Thor Able I, Polaris AX, Arcas, Thor DM-18A, Atlas D, Juno II, Bold Orion 2, Redstone MRLV, Thor Able II, Draco, Atlas E, Thor Delta A, Thor Able III, Minuteman 1A, Titan IIIC, Atlas C Able, Loki, Mace, Thor DM-18C, Pershing 1, Atlas Agena A, Thor Able IV, Thor Ablestar, Thor Delta, Blue Scout Jr, Polaris A2, Blue Scout I, Blue Scout II, Atlas SLV-3 Agena B, Atlas Agena B, Atlas F, Saturn C-1, Thor DSV-2D, Atlas SLV-3 Agena D, Atlas Centaur, Polaris A3, Minuteman 1B, Thor Delta B, Hopi Dart, Saturn I, Nike Javelin, Nike Tomahawk, Atlas Agena D, Thor DSV-2F, Saturn IB, Thor Delta C, Judi-Dart, Thor DSV-2G, Titan II GLV, Cajun Dart, Thor Delta D, Titan IIIA, Minuteman 2, Polaris A2E, Atlas Centaur D, Thor Delta E, Thor Delta C1, Atlas SLV-3, Thor Delta E1, Uprated Saturn I, Space Shuttle, Thor Delta G, Viper-Dart, Atlas SLV-3C Centaur, Saturn V, Atlas SLV-3A Agena D, Pershing 1A, Super Loki, Minuteman 3, Poseidon C3, Thor Delta N, Thor Delta M, Rocketsonde, Thor Delta L, M55E1, Thor Delta M6, Delta 1604, Delta 1914, Atlas SLV-3D Centaur, Delta 1913, Aries, Delta 2313, Titan IIIE, Delta 2914, Delta 2910, Delta 1910, Delta 3914, Trident C-4, Delta 3910, Delta 3910/PAM, Delta 3920, Pershing 2, Delta 3920/PAM, Delta 3924, Titan 34D/IUS, Titan 34D/Transtage, Atlas G Centaur, Trident D-5, Delta 6925, Delta 3920-8, Titan 402A/IUS, Delta 4925-8, Commercial Titan 3, Delta 6920-8, Delta 6925-8, Delta 6920-10, Titan 405A, Atlas I, Delta 7925, Starbird, LCLV, Prospector sounding rocket, Atlas II, Atlas IIA, Atlas IIAS, Titan 401A/Centaur, Delta 7925-8, Pegasus XL, Delta 7925-10, Athena-1, Delta 7920-10, Titan 402B/IUS, Delta 7920-8, Titan 401B/Centaur, Athena-2, Delta 7925-9.5, Delta 7420-10C, Delta 8930, Delta 7326-9.5, Delta 7425-9.5, Delta 7426-9.5, Delta 7320-10, Atlas 3A, Titan 403B, Delta 7425-10, Atlas 3B DEC, Delta 7920-10L, Atlas V 401, Delta 4M+(4,2), Delta 4M, Atlas V 521, Delta 7920H, Delta 7320-10C, Delta 4H, Atlas V 431, Atlas V 551, Atlas V 411, Delta 7925-10L, Delta 7925H, Atlas V 421, Delta 4M+(5,4), Atlas V 501. Projects: Americom, Anik, Apollo, ASTP, Astra, ATS, BONUM, BS, BSB, CS, DFS, DirecTV, Discovery series, DSCS, Eutelsat, Explorer, Galaxy, GTE, Hispasat, Insat, Intelsat, JCSAT, Koreasat, Leasat, Mariner, Mars Surveyor, Morelos, Navstar, Pioneer series, Palapa, Ranger, SAC, Satcom, SBS, STS, Superbird, Telstar series, Tempo, Thor Comsat, Westar. Launch Sites: Cape Canaveral LC3, Cape Canaveral LA, Cape Canaveral LC4, Cape Canaveral LC2, Cape Canaveral LC6, Cape Canaveral RW30/12, Cape Canaveral LC5, Cape Canaveral LC9, Cape Canaveral LC18A, Cape Canaveral LC17B, Cape Canaveral LC14, Cape Canaveral LC1, Cape Canaveral LC26A, Cape Canaveral LC17A, Cape Canaveral LC26B, Cape Canaveral LC12, Cape Canaveral LC25A, Cape Canaveral LC18B, Cape Canaveral LC11, Cape Canaveral LC13, Cape Canaveral LC10, Cape Canaveral LC4A, Cape Canaveral LC22, Cape Canaveral LC43, Cape Canaveral LC15, Cape Canaveral LC19, Cape Canaveral LC25B, Cape Canaveral LC29A, Cape Canaveral LC16, Cape Canaveral LC32A, Cape Canaveral LC20, Cape Canaveral LC42, Cape Canaveral LC30, Cape Canaveral LC31A, Cape Canaveral LC32B, Cape Canaveral LC34, Cape Canaveral LC31B, Cape Canaveral LC36A, Cape Canaveral LC21/1, Cape Canaveral LC21/2, Cape Canaveral LC37A, Cape Canaveral LC37B, Cape Canaveral LC40, Cape Canaveral LC36B, Cape Canaveral LC41, Cape Canaveral LC39A, Cape Canaveral LC25C, Cape Canaveral LC39B, Cape Canaveral LC25D, Cape Canaveral LC39D, Cape Canaveral LC39E, Cape Canaveral LC29B, Cape Canaveral LC47, Cape Canaveral LC46, Cape Canaveral RW15/33, Cape Canaveral SLC41, Cape Canaveral SLC17, Cape Canaveral LC39, Cape Canaveral LC39C, Cape Canaveral ETR. Agency: USAF, NATO, Arabsat, Aussat, SES, Inmarsat, Echostar. Bibliography: 2, 9336, 13403.
 | Cape Canaveral Location of Cape Canaveral Credit: © Mark Wade |
1949 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Cape Canaveral selected for rocket launches. - .
Nation: USA.
Recognizing that rocket test ranges will exceed White Sands capability, Cape Canaveral selected for future long range flights. President Truman signed a bill providing a 5,000-mile guided-missile test range, which was subsequently established at Cape Canaveral, Fla. Negotiations with British government begin for installation of string of tracking stations in Bahamas Islands.
1949 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Cape Canaveral activated. - . Nation: USA. Long-Range Proving Ground at Cape Canaveral was activated..
1950 June 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Air Force given responsibility for Cape Canaveral. - .
Nation: USA.
Department of Defense assigned range responsibilities to the armed services: Army: White Sands, N. Mex., Proving Ground and nearby Holloman Air Force Base at Alamogordo; Navy: Point Mugu, Calif.: Air Force: Long-Range Proving Groud at Banana River, Fla. (now called Cape Canaveral).
1950 July 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: V-2.
- First attempted launch from Cape Canaveral. - . Payload: WAC-Corporal. Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Program: Bumper. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Pad abort on 19 July of Bumper No. 8, a German V-2 with a 320 kg Army-JPL Wac Corporal. Launch scrubbed first due to emergency landing of aircraft in the range; second attempt, no lift, main chamber did not ignite..
1950 July 24 - . 14:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: V-2. Launch Vehicle: Bumper-WAC. FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: GE,
US Army.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
Bumper No. 8, a German V-2 with a 320 kg Army-JPL Wac Corporal, was fired from the Long-Range Proving Ground at Cape Canaveral at a very low angle of attack. The first-stage V-2 climbed 16 km before it exploded. The second-stage Corporal separated successfully, however, and traveled another 24 km. This was the first missile launch from Cape Canaveral.
1950 July 29 - . 11:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: V-2. Launch Vehicle: Bumper-WAC.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: GE,
US Army.
Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).
Bumper No. 7 was the second missile launch from Cape Canaveral. This was to be a maximum range test of a two-stage vehicle, to study the problems in staging. The launch was delayed because of moisture in the vehicle. But when finally launched, the WAC achieved the highest sustained speed in the atmosphere to that date (Mach 9/2500 m/s) and 35.2 km altitude before impacting 305 km downrange.
1950 August 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Patrick AFB named. - . Nation: USA. Patrick Air Force Base, administrative headquarters of the AFMTC at Cape Canaveral, offiically named after Gen. Mason M. Patrick..
1950 October 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 8.00 km (4.90 mi). The first Lark missile launched by Air Force from Cape Canaveral, the last of the three missiles launched in 1950 at the LRPG..
1950 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1950 November 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 April 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 May 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 May 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 June 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 June 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 June 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 June 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 July 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 July 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 August 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 August 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 September 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 September 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 September 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 October 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1951 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 December 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1951 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1951 December 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 January 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 January 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 February 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 February 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 February 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 March 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 March 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 March 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 April 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 April 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 May 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 May 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 May 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 May 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 July 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 July 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 July 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 July 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 August 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1952 September 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 September 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 September 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 September 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1952 October 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 October 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1952 November 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 November 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 November 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 November 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 November 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1952 November 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1952 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1952 December 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1952 December 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1953 January 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 January 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 January 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 February 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 February 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1953 February 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Wasserfall. Launch Vehicle: Hermes A-2.
1953 February 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 February 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 February 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 March 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 March 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Wasserfall. Launch Vehicle: Hermes A-2.
1953 March 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 March 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. LV Family: Snark. Launch Vehicle: MX-775.
1953 March 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 March 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 March 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Wasserfall. Launch Vehicle: Hermes A-2.
1953 March 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Wasserfall. Launch Vehicle: Hermes A-2.
1953 March 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 April 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 April 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 April 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 April 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 April 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 April 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 May 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 May 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 May 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 June 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 July 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 July 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Vehicle: Lark.
1953 July 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 August 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 August 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69A version of Snark..
1953 August 20 - . 14:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control System malfunction followed by Power Plant malfunction at approximately 80 sec. Ground cut-off command given... Failed Stage: G.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 6.00 km (3.70 mi). Redstone missile No. 1 was fired by Army Redstone Arsenal personnel at AFMTC, Cape Canaveral. Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 240,000 m..
1953 August 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1953 September 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 October 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1953 October 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 October 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 November 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1953 December 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 January 27 - . 15:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Successful missile test. Missed aimpoint by 8,400 m..
1954 January 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 February 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 February 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 February 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 February 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 February 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 March 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1954 April 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 April 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1954 May 5 - . 17:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Ejector burnout immediately following lift-off.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 277,000 m..
1954 May 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 May 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 June 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1954 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1954 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 June 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 July 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 July 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 July 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 July 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 August 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1954 August 18 - . 14:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Steam generator regulator malfunction caused drop in combustion pressure..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 19,200 m..
1954 September 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 September 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69B version of Snark..
1954 September 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 October 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 October 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 October 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 October 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1954 October 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1954 November 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 November 17 - . 18:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Ground programmed yaw maneuver caused missile control loss at 80 sec causing power plant erratic behavior. Human error in selection of yaw maneuver impulse.. Failed Stage: G.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 166,300 m..
1954 November 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1954 December 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1954 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 January 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 January 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 January 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 January 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 January 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 February 9 - . 20:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Separation bolt No. 3 failure. Inverter frequency shift.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 23,400 m..
1955 February 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69C version of Snark..
1955 February 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 February 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 February 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 February 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 March 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 March 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 March 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 March 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 March 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 March 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 April 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 April 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 April 20 - . 06:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Guidance system malfunction at 310 sec due to air pressure loss. ST-80 lateral guidance only..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 7,000 m..
1955 April 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 April 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 April 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 April 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 May 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1955 May 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 May 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 May 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 May 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Project Orbiter plans. - . Nation: USA. Project Orbiter Conference was held at Redstone Arsenal and at Cape Canaveral..
1955 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 QTV.
1955 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 QTV.
1955 May 25 - . 04:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Guidance system malfunction at 155, sec due to wiring error..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 17,200 m..
1955 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 June 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 HTV. FAILURE: Failure.
1955 June 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 HTV.
1955 June 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 HTV.
1955 July 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 July 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17 HTV.
1955 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1955 July 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 July 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 Aug - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: X-17. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
- First attempt to launch X-17 reentry test vehicle - . Lockheed's first attempt to launch its X-17 reentry test vehicle (RTV) at Cape Canaveral, Florida, was unsuccessful..
1955 August 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 August 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 16 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Demonstrated planned automated landing, but drag chute did not deploy after landing. The vehicle overran the skid strip, the nosewheel collapsed in the sand in the overrun, the tanks ruptured, and the vehicle burned..
1955 August 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 August 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1955 August 31 - . 00:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Excessive temperature in tail section caused malfunction of jet vane control..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 540 m..
1955 September 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 September 22 - . 05:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Excessive temperature in tail section caused malfunction of control.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
RS-11 was launched at 0051 hours EST from AMR after a three-hour hold. The flight was unsuccessful. The LOX container pressure and the combustion chamber decreased 50 seconds after lift-off. The temperature of Fin Number 1 went out of measuring range 72 seconds after lift-off. The servo battery current dropped to zero and the stabilised platform lost its reference. The range safety officer gave the emergency cut-off signal at 79 seconds. Impact occurred approximately 21,000 yards from the launch pad. The RS-11 was the first flight with the complete guidance system. Missed aimpoint by 118,800 m.
1955 September 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1955 September 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 17 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. An engine problem resulted in a mission abort. After autolanding the nose wheel developed a shimmy, the vehicle ran off the skid strip, caught fire, and was destroyed..
1955 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 October 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 November 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1955 November 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 November 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 November 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1955 December 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1955 December 6 - . 00:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
RS-12 was launched from AMR at 1946 hours EST. The flight was successful. The actual range was 144.79 nm; .31 nm over; and 200 meters right of the intended impact point, The primary test objective was to test the complete guidance system. This was the first successful flight with the inertial guidance system. Missed aimpoint by 228,800 m.
1955 December 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1955 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). USAF Northrop Snark launched from Cape Canaveral on 2,000-mile flight..
1956 January 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 January 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 January 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 January 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 January 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 February 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 February 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 18 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. The vehicle reached Mach 1.9 on a 51-minute long-range flight. It landed successfully..
1956 February 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 February 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 February 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 February 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 February 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 19 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. The vehicle reached a record Mach 2.1 speed and autolanded safely on the skid strip after a 62 minute flight..
1956 March 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 March 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 March 15 - . 00:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Early cut-off caused by Incorrect guidance cut-off equation pre-setting. ST-80 gyro spilled at 310 sec..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
The first Jupiter A launching, by ABMA at Cape Canaveral. RS-18 was launched at 1936 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. The scheduled launching date of this missile was 13 March. Three holds were called because of LOX difficulties, telemetry difficulties, and replacement of a gate valve. The actual range was 133.58 nm; 10.3 nm under; and 5.66 nm right of the intended impact point. Separation occurred before the missile gained its correct velocity. Improper assumption of propellant flow for the trajectory calculation was primarily responsible for the incorrect cut-off. The primary test objectives were to test the complete guidance and control system to establish the performance qualities of the complete missile system. Missed aimpoint by 19,100 m.
1956 March 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 20 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Test of high angle-of-attack approach and recovery system. Flawless autolanding on the skid strip with precision short landing (1080 m landing roll)..
1956 March 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 April 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 April 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 April 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 21 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Ground control system failure resulted in missile crashing at sea at Mach 1.25 200 km from the Cape..
1956 May 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 May 16 - . 04:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Missile programmed to cut-off at fuel depletion - this combined with known stability problems caused excessive miss distance..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
RS-19 was launched at 2322 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. The actual range was 169.4 nm; 13 nm over the intended impact point. Cut-off wee given by the alcohol depletion switch that sensed alcohol injector pressure drop-off. Takeoff occurred 0.156 seconds after firing. The missile followed the correct trajectory with no obvious deviation. Missile cut-off occurred later than predicted and caused the missile to impact approximately 6.5 nm long, During descent the warhead turned left, causing impact to be several miles to the left of the aiming azimuth line. The primary test objectives were to test the angle-of-attack meter hardware (Jupiter control). Missed aimpoint by 25,100 m.
1956 May 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. Launch Pad: PAFB/800. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 May 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 June 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 22 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Inertial navigation test. Flight aborted when computer malfunction prevented INS signals from being passed to the autopilot. Successful autoland; drag brake deploy failure; successful engagement by runway landing barrier..
1956 June 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 140 km (80 mi). USAF X-17 flight test program started at Cape Canaveral to study reentry problems by simulating reentry velocities and conditions with three-stage solid-fuel Lockheed X-17. A total of 26 X-17 flights were conducted until March 1957..
1956 July 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 July 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 July 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
- Re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). The first Lockheed X-17 reentry test vehicle (R-2) to complete a successful flight was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. .
1956 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 23 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Inertial navigation system test. Flight aborted when computer system failed during takeoff. Successful recovery on skid strip..
1956 July 19 - . 08:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: ST-80 malfunction at theta switch operation - 310 sec..
- Jupiter A - . Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). CC-13 was launched at 0345 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. The actual range was 142.457 nm; .780 nm over the intended impact point. This was the first Chrysler fabricated and assembled missile. Missed aimpoint by 1,071 m..
1956 July 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 August 8 - . 08:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
RS-20 was launched at 0325 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. The actual range was 139.72 nm; 0.3 nm over the intended impact point. The primary teat objectives were to test the accuracy of the guidance system and to acquire data for the establishment of design criteria for the Jupiter. This was the first time that the combustion chamber pressure was controlled. Missed aimpoint by 175 m.
1956 August 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 August 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
- 4203-5 re-entry vehicle test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 142 km (88 mi). A five-stage, solid-fuel rocket test vehicle, the world's first, was launched to a speed of mach 15 from Wallops Island, Va. by the NACA Langley Aeronautical Laboratory's Pilotless Aircraft Research Division..
1956 August 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 24 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
Full-range test with final dive maneuver. Swan song of vehicle eight after three successful recovered missions. During takeoff the vehicle was aloft, then settled back to the runway with its brakes locked. The tires burst, the gear failed, the gear doors were in contact with the runway, carving grooves in the pavement as they retracted. Then, astonishingly, the vehicle rose from the runway, completed a successful full-range supersonic flight with terminal dive into the waters off Grand Bahamas.
1956 August 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 August 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 August 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 August 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 September 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 September 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 September 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 September 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 September 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 September 20 - . 06:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. FAILURE: Early cut-off due to human error in tanking ..
- Jupiter C re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 1,097 km (681 mi).
First Jupiter C (a three-stage ABMA-JPL Redstone missile) was launched at Cape Canaveral, Fla., attained an altitude of 1096 km and traveled 5,300 km downrange. The first three-stage re-entry missile, was fired at 0145 hours EST from AMR. This missile attained an estimated range of 3,335 ST miles, an altitude of 682 ST miles, and reached Mach 18 velocity. The primary objective of the firing was the propulsion and separation tart of a multi-stage vehicle. The missile was a four-stage configuration with the last stage inactive. The first stage was an elongated Redstone missile, the second and third stages were up of 11 and 3 six-inch scaled SERGEANT rockets, respectively. The payload consisted of approximately 20 pounds of instrumentation attached to the inactive fourth stage. The flight was successful and the sequence of operations occurred as programmed. This vehicle could have obtained sufficient velocity to place it in orbit, if the last stage had been activated. First deep penetration of space. Serial number coding for early Redstones and related vehicles used the following substitution cipher: 1234567890 = HUNTSVILLEX
1956 September 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 25 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. N-6 inertial navigation test flight. Successful 79-minute flight, marred by pitot icing at one point. Successful recovery. Navigator error reached 3 miles at one point, but was one mile at the end of the mission..
1956 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 October 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Full-scale test version of the Snark guided missile (XSM62) successfully recovered for the first time after a flight from Cape Canaveral..
1956 October 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 October 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 October 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 October 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 October 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 October 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 October 18 - . 09:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
CC-14 was launched at 0405 hours EST from AMR after a series of short holds. The flight was successful. The actual range was 137.870 nm; 72 meters over and 338 meters right: of the intended impact point. The primary objectives were to test the accuracy of the guidance system and to test angle of-attack meters for the Jupiter. Missed aimpoint by 346 m.
1956 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 26 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Successful inertial navigation test flight..
1956 October 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 October 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1956 October 31 - . 02:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Malfunction of yaw gyro at approximately 10 sec. Ground cut-off command given.. Failed Stage: G.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
RS-25 was launched at 2104 hours EST from AMR. The flight was not successful. The behaviour of the missile appeared normal for the first 13 seconds, an early roll disturbance having been smoothly eliminated. Starting at 13 seconds after range zero, the gyro yaw signal indicated increasing yaw for a few seconds and the tracking devices at the same time showed increased displacement to the left of the standard trajectory. The malfunction apparently occurred between the yaw gyro potentiometer output and the outputs of the yaw amplifier of the mixing computer. The primary test objective was to test power plant performance. Missed aimpoint by 264,900 m.
1956 November 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 November 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Pitched up, disintegrated at T+26 seconds - pitch rate gyro installed backwards.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi).
Continuing problems with APU reliability delayed the launch to November. Various problems extended the countdown from the planned 7 hours 30 minutes to 14 hours 30 minutes. Successful launch, then vehicle pitched up and disintegrated 26 seconds after launch, impacting 4 km down range. It was found the pitch rate gyro had been installed backward.
1956 November 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Pad: LC2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69D version of Snark..
1956 November 14 - . 02:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Human error in propellant loading plus programmed fuel depletion cut-off..
- Jupiter A/Sandia PL - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
RS-28 was launched at 2105 EST from AMR. The flight was successful. Actual range was 152.4 nm; 9.51 nm over; and 1.5 kilometres left of the intended impact point. The missile carried the LEV-3 rather than the ST-80 guidance system and used fuel depletion cut-off. The primary test objective was to test the Sandia payload. Missed aimpoint by 19,500 m.
1956 November 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 November 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 flight 27 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. Final X-10 flight. After cruise at Mach 1.3 at 75 km, the missile made a dive and precision impact on an island down-range..
1956 November 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 November 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 November 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1956 November 29 - . 13:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 0823 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. Actual range was 138.969 nm; .137 nm over and 122 meters left of the intended impact point, a radial miss distance of 260 meters. The primary test objectives were to test the accuracy of the complete guidance system and to test Jupiter control components. Missed aimpoint by 255 m.
1956 November 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1956 December 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark. FAILURE: Failure.
1956 December 8 - . 06:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Viking sounding rocket. Launch Vehicle: Viking Type 9.
- Vanguard TV0 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Apogee: 204 km (126 mi).
First Vanguard test; re-entry studies; not a vertical firing. Launched at 0103 local time. First test rocket in the IGY-U.S. satellite program, a one-stage NRL Viking, attained an altitude of 176 km and a speed of 6,400 kph. Viking No. 13 carried a "minitrack" radio transmitter which was ejected at 80 km and tracked.
1956 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1956 December 19 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: First experimental flight with Hydyne. Specific impulse exceeded predicted values. Re-entry system intentionally unstable to test Jupiter alpha control..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
The flight was successful, Actual range was 401.6 nm; 84.9 nm over the intended impact point. The missile used Hydyne fuel. The primary test objective was to test the control of an unstable missile configuration by using an angle-of-attack meter (boom type) in the ascending phase (Jupiter control). Missed aimpoint by 157,200 m.
1956 December 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Pad: LC2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 January 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 January 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 January 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1957 January 19 - . 01:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Platform roll control malfunction at 310 sec..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 2037 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. Actual range was 61.6 nm; 400 meters left; and 0.21 nm over the intended impact point. The primary objective was to test the accuracy of the guidance system when the missile is fired in a short range trajectory at an extreme attitude to range ratio. The missile closely followed the predicted trajectory for a successful flight which terminated 70 meters beyond and 360 meters to the Left of the expected impact point at 61.553 nm range. The short range trajectory was programmed with an extreme altitude-to-range ratio so the guidance system would be subjected to the most difficult short range expected in future tactical application. Missed aimpoint by 400 m.
1957 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 January 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Lox contamination, led to a valve failure. Thrust decayed, the booster settled back through the thrust ring, causing an oxygen fire, followed by booster explosion.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Series I research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). First attempted test flight of USAF Thor IRBM, only 13 months after first production contracts were signed, failed to launch. The first attempt failed when the vehicle lost thrust immediately after liftoff..
1957 January 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17. FAILURE: Failure.
1957 February 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 February 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 February 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 February 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 February 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 February 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 March 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 March 1 - . 21:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: Missile break-up attributed to overheating in the tail section.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 14 km (8 mi).
The first Jupiter flight was fired at 1651 hours EST from AMR. The missile achieved a 48,000 foot altitude. Flight terminated at 7.4 seconds because of missile break-up. Failure was attributed to overheating in the tail section. The trajectory to this point was as predicted.
1957 March 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 March 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First test flight N-69D version of Snark with inertial guidance..
1957 March 14 - . 08:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Platform interference caused control malfunction at re-entry..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
The first missile shipped directly from the Chrysler Factory to the test site to be flight tested was launched at 0312 hours EST from AMR The flight was successful. Actual range was 138.178 nm; 2.2 nm under; and 1250 meters left of the intended impact point. The missile functioned properly until 182 seconds when an unexplainable pitch deviation caused a slow tilting of the missile top section. The cut-off function at 120 seconds and the separation function at 135 seconds, after flight zero time, were both satisfactory. Missed aimpoint by 4,183 m.
1957 March 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 March 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Ground pod failed to jettison; booster damaged and did not achieve speed/altitude required for cruise stage ignition.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 9.00 km (5.50 mi).
G-26 number two / booster 6 lifted off after a 9 hour 48 minute countdown with nearly five hours of holds, on the first attempt after two successful static firings. However failure of a launch lanyard meant the kerosene start-pod on the booster remained attached. This sheared off at 4500 m, causing extensive booster damage. Thrust decayed. The cruise stage separated at Mach 1.3 at 28,300 feet, but this was below ramjet ignition speed. However the pilot on the ground was able to assume radio control of the vehicle, and flew it in a glide over the ocean, even demonstrating landing gear deployment before it pancaked into the water.
1957 March 28 - . 01:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 2022 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful from the standpoint of missions accomplished, with cut-off time 112 seconds and separation time 126 seconds after range zero time. Impact point was 220 meters short and 320 meters to the right, a radial miss distance of 390 meters, primary objective was to test the accuracy of the guidance system when the missile was fired in a short range trajectory at an extreme altitude to range ratio. Missed aimpoint by 390 m.
1957 April 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 April 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-5.
1957 April 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 April 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 April 20 - . 04:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Console wiring error resulted in erroneous tracking indication; destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: G.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
The second Thor flight test missile launched on the Atlantic Missile Range (AMR) was successful until the Range Safety Officer (RSO) accidentally destroyed the missile. Douglas Thor IRBM (XSM-75) was launched at Cape Canaveral, Fla., destroyed by range safety officer. The missile was actually on course throughout its flight. The console wiring error led the range safety officer to believe it was headed inland rather than out to sea, so he hit the destruct button.
1957 April 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Booster shut down 1 m over the pad due to incorrect shutdown timer signal - exploded on pad.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 3 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Vehicle 4 was still not ready for the first Broomstick flight, so vehicle 5 was substituted. It took five attempts before a 15.6 second static test cleared the booster for launch on 29 March. 8 hours and 42 minutes of hold stretched the five-hour countdown out into the evening. The booster ignited, rose 1.3 m, then shut down. The vehicle fell back onto the pad, exploding. Cause was a 15-second timer that was supposed to shut the engines down 15 seconds after the vehicle hold-downs released if a lanyard had not been pulled free of the vehicle as it rose off the ground. The 15 seconds had been reached before the lanyard pulled free, but by then the vehicle had risen off the pad. This made 15 attempts to launch a Navaho, with only two booster ignitions, both resulting in loss of the vehicle. The Northrop crews at the Cape dubbed their competitor the "Never-Go Navaho" to counter jibes directed at them about the "Snark-infested waters" off the launch area. The Air Force was not amused, and had a tiger-team review of the G-26 on a system-basis which recommended several procedures. Meanwhile G-38 launch plans were further delayed over internal USAF wrangles over launch facility construction.
1957 April 26 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Fired from AMR at 1512 hours EST to test the design version of the airframe and rocket engine. The flight terminated at 93 seconds because of propellant slosh. The missile achieved an altitude of 60,000 feet. The flight was partially successful..
1957 May 1 - . 06:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Viking sounding rocket. Launch Vehicle: Viking Type 9.
- Vanguard TV1 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 195 km (121 mi). Test of Vanguard third-stage separation and firing at altitude.Launched at 0129 local time..
1957 May 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark. FAILURE: Failure.
1957 May 15 - . 07:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. FAILURE: Loss of instrument compartment pressure at 134 seconds causing failure of pitch gyro prior to cut-off..
- Jupiter re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 655 km (406 mi).
The second three-stage re-entry missile, was launched at 0255 hours EST from AMR to test the thermal behaviour of a scaled-down version of the Jupiter nose cone during re-entry. The separated nose cone, which weighed 314 pounds, should have reached a nominal range of 1,212 nm. The missile began. to pitch up at 134 seconds, and impact was 420 nm short of the intended impact point. The composite missile consisted of three stages. The first stage was an elongated Redstone using alcohol and liquid oxygen as propellant. The second and third stages were made up of clusters of 11 and 3 scaled-down Sergeant solid propellant rockets, respectively. The nose cone was not recovered; however, instrument contact with the nose cone through re-entry indicated that the ablative-type heat protection for warheads was successful. Nose Cone Recovery Test
1957 May 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 May 22 - . 03:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
1957 May 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 May 31 - . 18:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Army Jupiter IRBM was fired 1,500 miles, limit of its designed range, and to an altitude of 250-300 miles, the first successful launching of an IRBM. Fired from AMR at 1308 hours EST to test the range capability and performance of rocket engine and control system. Although the missile was 253 nm short of its estimated 1,400 nm impact point, this was the first successful flight of the Jupiter. All phases of the test were successful during this first firing of the IRBM in the western world
1957 June 11 - . 19:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A. FAILURE: Failure in the booster fuel system.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 3.00 km (1.80 mi).
The first Atlas Series A flight test missile (4A) had to be destroyed shortly after launch from Cape Canaveral due to a booster engine shutdown and loss of thrust. From a technical standpoint, however, this first booster-only launch successfully demonstrated the launching mechanism, structural integrity of the airframe, subsystems performance, and operating procedures for launch crew personnel. First test flight of prototype WS-107A Atlas was detonated by command signal at 10,000 feet following a failure in the booster fuel system. The 23-second flight was considered a partial success.
1957 June 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Vehicle: Snark. FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). First test flight N-69E version of Snark..
1957 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: One booster engine failed during ascent; did not achieve speed/altitude required for cruise stage ignition.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 4 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 12 km (7 mi).
The missile launched from the repaired LC-9 on the third attempt. At T+42 seconds, Mach 1.63, and 7,000 m altitude, a fire occurred in the engine compartment after a failure of a regenerative cooling valve to the gas generator. The turbopump shut down, and one engine went out. Nevertheless the vehicle continued, first on one engine, then coasting, to 12,000 m altitude, and the booster separated successfully. But the cruise stage was below ramjet ignition velocity. Again ground control could bring the cruise stage under control as a glider, flying it to an impact 87 km downrange
1957 June 26 - . 11:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Human error in calculation of takeoff weight..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 0609 hours EST from AMR to test performance of the inertial guidance system, angle-of-attack meters, separation of explosive screws, and impact and radar fusing systems. Range instrumentation difficulties and deteriorating weather delayed the firing from the initially scheduled time of 0230 hours EST. The flight was successful. Actual range was 135.425 nm; 0.42 nm over; and 389 meters left of the intended impact point. Missed aimpoint by 785 m.
1957 June 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-4.
1957 July 12 - . 06:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Control system malfunction at re-entry..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 0130 hours EST from AMR. The primary test objective was to test the accuracy of the guidance system. The flight was successful. Actual range was 130.125 nm; 0.15 nm over; and 285 meters left of the intended impact point. All missions were successfully accomplished. The missile followed the predicted trajectory very closely. Survey of the impact crater indicated a miss distance of 50 meters over and 284 meters to the left of the predicted impact point, giving a radial miss distance of 389.5 meters. Missed aimpoint by 289 m.
1957 July 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-4.
1957 July 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 July 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-3.
1957 July 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 July 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Vehicle: X-17.
1957 July 26 - . 04:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 2317 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful. Actual range was 126.227 nm; 147 meters under; and 182 meters left of the intended impact point. The primary test objective was to flight test warhead and fuse functioning as a system. A survey of the warhead impact point: indicated a miss distance of 147 meters short, 182 meters to the left of the predicted impact point, or a radial miss distance of 234 meters. Missed aimpoint by 235 m.
1957 August 8 - . 06:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
- Jupiter re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 460 km (280 mi).
First Nose Cone Recovery. Army-JPL Jupiter-C fired a scale-model nose cone 1,200 miles down range from AMR with a summit altitude of 600 miles. Recovery the next day of aerodynamic nose cone using ablation, resolved reentry heating problem for Jupiter missile. Nose cone was shown to the Nation on TV by President Eisenhower on November 7.
Fired from AMR at 0159 hours EST, impacted at the predicted range. This success proved conclusively that the planned ablative-type heat protection for Jupiter warheads was satisfactory. The missile was a three-stage configuration--the first stage an elongated Redstone missile, the second and third stages 11 and 3 six-inch scaled Sergeant rockets, respectively. The one-third scale Jupiter nose cone was attached to the final stage with scheme for separation provided. The nose cone travelled to a 1,168 nm range, reached a velocity of 4,004 m/sec, and experienced a total heat input at stagnation point at 95% of that for the full scale nose cone at 1,500 nm. Naval units recovered the scaled nose cone according to plan.
1957 August 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-3.
1957 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 5 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi).
After a 15 hour 18 minute countdown G-26 number four finally left the pad. The boost phase was completed successfully; but then a guidance system malfunction prevented the cruise stage from separating from the booster until an altitude of 25 km was reached. However the autopilot successfully overcome drastic pitch oscillations created by the lofted trajectory, and the ramjets were successfully ignited. The stage cruised at Mach 2.93 for 280 km. However then the vehicle began drifting off course. The ground pilot banked, but the fuselage screened the airflow to the left ramjet intake, resulting in that engine flaming out. The vehicle lost speed and altitude, and the right engine flamed out a minute later. The missile was ordered into a terminal dive, impacting 425 km downrange.
1957 August 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 August 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 August 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-5.
1957 August 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 August 28 - . 21:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The fourth Jupiter was fired from AMR at 1602 hours EST over IRBM range and was the second successful flight of the series. The range error was 27.5 nm with a 36.5 nm lateral error. Range was predicted for 146 nm. LOX was cut off at 170 seconds. All flight missions were fulfilled satisfactorily. Separation occurred 5 seconds after burnout, as programmed, This was the first test of separation of body from thrust unit.
1957 August 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 August 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Series I research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). The fourth Thor (#104) missile broke up and exploded 96 seconds into its flight. .
1957 September 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1957 September 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 September 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 September 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 September 11 - . 02:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: ST-80 pitch program malfunction..
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at: 2141 hours EST from AMR. The flight was unsuccessful, The missile impacted 14.77 nm from the launch pad. Mechanical failure of the guidance tilt program caused the missile to assume a very steep trajectory which resulted La. a short range flight. Missed aimpoint by 111,000 m.
1957 September 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 September 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 6 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 23 km (14 mi).
The booster worked well, the cruise stage separated at 23.5 km altitude. The ramjets ignited, and the cruise stage accelerated to Mach 3.5. After 15 minutes, the missile began drifting off-course, and ground control took over and banked the missile. One of the ramjets flamed out, and the missile was commanded into a terminal dive and impacted 930 km downrange.
1957 September 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 September 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
- Series I research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
First fully successful test flight of Thor intermediate range ballistic missile. (AF Ballistic Missiles Program Status Report.) After four failures, the fifth Thor flight test missile (#105) successfully demonstrated all on-board systems. The engine operated 137 seconds to automatic shutdown, and missile impacted 1,300 nautical miles down range from Cape Canaveral. Complete USAF Thor IRBM first successfully launched from Cape Canaveral. Dummy Warhead sent to 1800 km range.
1957 September 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 September 25 - . 19:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A. FAILURE: Failure in the booster fuel system.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 4.00 km (2.40 mi).
The second Atlas flight test missile (6A) was destroyed 32 seconds into the flight because of an engine shutdown. Atlas was again destroyed by command signal at three minutes into flight following a failure in the booster fuel system. The 50-second active flight was considered a partial success.
1957 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 September 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 October 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 October 2 - . 19:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Launched at 1429 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful, the impact point was 445 metres long and 452 meters to the right of the predicted impact point, giving a radial miss distance of. 634 meters. This was the first flight test of the NAA A-6 engine with a sea level thrust of 78,000 pounds. Missed aimpoint by 572 m.
1957 October 3 - . 17:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1957 October 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 October 11 - . 16:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Turbopump gearbox failure..
- Series I research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The second successful Thor flight test missile was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and attained its design range of 1,500 miles. Thor missile launched at Cape Canaveral, the second tested, achieved its designed 1,500-mile range..
1957 October 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 October 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1957 October 23 - . 01:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The fifth Jupiter was fired from the AMR at 2007 hours EST. This was the first flight with a heat protected nose cone. The ST-90 inertial guidance stabilised platform was operated with partially closed circuits. Cut-off was effected by the guidance system at 170.37 seconds. Since fuel was not depleted, flight time was 9.5 seconds longer than had been predicted for an approximate 1,100 nm range. The range error was 10.2 nm with a 3.4 nm lateral error. The nose cone survived re-entry and impacted in the general vicinity of the predicted impact point. Again, a successful flight.
1957 October 23 - . 19:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard.
- Vanguard TV2 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 175 km (108 mi). IGY Vanguard prototype (TV-2) with simulated second and third stage successfully met test objectives, by reaching 109-mile altitude and 4,250 mph..
1957 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-3.
1957 October 24 - . 16:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
- Series I research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). In its first long-range flight, a Thor missile launched from Cape Canaveral completed a 2,645-mile flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. Stripped down Thor long-range flight test successful from AMR, impacting 4400 km downrange..
1957 October 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Snark intercontinental missile launched from Cape Canaveral first flew 5,000 miles, to a target near Ascension Island..
1957 October 31 - . 04:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A. FAILURE: Loss of inter-compartment pressure at 68 sec. Ground cut-off command given.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 40 km (24 mi).
Launched at 2352 hours EST from AMR. The flight was unsuccessful. Actual range was 48 nm, whereas the predicted range wee 130.588 nm. At 68 seconds, a disturbance occurred in the lateral accelerometer and computer systems. Erroneous guidance instructions were transmitted to the control systems, causing a sharp yaw at 70 seconds. Cut-off was initiated at 98.1 seconds. One of the objectives was to indoctrinate troops for participation in the tactical portions of the countdown. Missed aimpoint by 151,000 m.
1957 November 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-3.
1957 November 13 - . 17:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Destroyed by range safety after telemetry dropped out at T+75 seconds.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 7 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
The booster functioned well, and the cruise stage separated at 20.4 km altitude and Mach 3.24. The ramjets ignited, but before the ground knew that, the telemetry dropped out completely due to a faulty voltage regulator on the missile. Range safety ordered the missile's self destruction at T+75 seconds.
1957 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1957 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 November 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1957 November 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 November 27 - . 02:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: At 202 seconds of flight mechanical failure of the turbo-pump caused a complete loss of thrust.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2110 hours EST. Main stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile passed through the critical dynamic pressure period and followed the prescribed trajectory until 202 seconds of flight when the engine thrust was terminated. From an analysis covering the period before thrust termination, mechanical failure of the turbo-pump stopped the flow of propellants to the combustion chamber causing a complete loss of thrust. Telemetry signals ceased at 232 seconds. The missile was at an altitude of 65,000 feet when an explosion was observed from the Test Centre above the horizon. The long range mission of this flight was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were considered successful.
1957 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1957 December 6 - . 16:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Vehicle lost thrust and exploded after 2 seconds.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Vanguard 1A - . Payload: Vanguard Test Satellite. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. Decay Date: 1957-12-06 . First US orbital attempt. IGY Vanguard (TV-3), the first with three live stages, failed to launch a test satellite..
1957 December 7 - . 22:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
1957 December 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1957 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1957 December 11 - . 00:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Jupiter A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Successfully fired at 1936 hours EST from AMR. The missile followed the trajectory very closely and impacted on target. All missions were successfully accomplished. The predicted impact range was 141.895 nm. The miss distance has bean certified as 153 meters radial, 94 meters over, and 121 meters to the left of the predicted impact point. The primary objective of the rest was to flight test Hardtack adaptation kit components as passengers. Missed aimpoint by 209 m.
1957 December 17 - . 17:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
The third flight test missile (12A) became the first successful Atlas Series A missile flight. A short-range, booster-only flight was completed with the booster impacting 575 miles down range from Cape Canaveral. During the flight, all systems performed satisfactorily. First successful test firing of USAF Atlas ICBM, the missile landing in the target area after a flight of 600 miles.
1957 December 19 - . 00:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight due to turbo-pump malfunction.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Fired from AMR at 1507 hours EST. The main-stage, lift-off, and powered flight were normal. The missile followed the prescribed trajectory. Thrust ended abruptly at 116.87 seconds of flight which resulted in a short-range impact. Failure was again attributed to turbo-pump malfunction. The long-range mission. was not accomplished; however, other primary and secondary missions were successfully accomplished. The abrupt shutdown of the power plant resulted in a range of approximately 149 nm and an altitude of approximately 50 nm.
1957 December 19 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series II test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
The eighth Thor flight test missile, the fourth success, completed the first fully-guided flight using an all-inertial guidance and control system. A Thor missile, the eighth tested and the fourth successfully, completed the first fully-guided Thor IRBM flight using an all-inertial guidance system.
1958 January 10 - . 15:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 120 km (70 mi). A successful limited flight was made by the fourth Atlas fired from Cape Canaveral..
1958 January 10 - . 19:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 8 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 22 km (13 mi).
The booster functioned well, the cruise stage separated at 22 km and Mach 3.15. The ramjets ignited and the cruise stage flew at a sustained speed of Mach 2.8 for forty minutes over a distance of 2000 km. Then the vehicle began a turn for the return to the Cape for recovery. However it seemed the turn was not fast enough; ground control took over, and yet again the right ramjet flamed out in a ground-piloted bank. The missile was commanded into a terminal dive at sea.
1958 January 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 January 15 - . 01:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
- Hardtack pod test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Successfully fired at 2024 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful in that all missions were accomplished.. The missile followed its predicted trajectory closely. Impact was 370 meters over and 86 meters to the tight of the predicted impact point, a radial miss distance of 380 meters. This wee the fifth complete flight test of warhead and fuse system. Missed aimpoint by 286 m.
1958 January 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1958 January 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 January 28 - . 20:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Thor IRBM successfully fired from Cape Canaveral, flew prescribed course, and impacted in preselected area..
1958 February 1 - . 03:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
- Explorer 1 - .
Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA.
Related Persons: von Braun.
Agency: US Army.
Program: Explorer.
Class: Earth.
Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Explorer.
Spacecraft: Explorer A.
Decay Date: 1970-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 4 . COSPAR: 1958-Alpha-1. Apogee: 1,859 km (1,155 mi). Perigee: 347 km (215 mi). Inclination: 33.20 deg. Period: 107.20 min.
Explorer I, the first U.S. earth satellite, was launched by a modified Army Ballistic Missile Agency Jupiter-C. Explorer I, developed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, carried the U.S.-IGY (International Geophysical Year) experiment of James A. Van Allen and resulted in the discovery of the radiation belt around the earth.
1958 February 5 - . 07:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Control system malfunction - control lost after 57 sec.. Failed Stage: G.
- Vanguard 1B - . Payload: Vanguard Test Satellite. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. Decay Date: 1958-02-05 . Apogee: 6.00 km (3.70 mi). Trial firing of IGY Vanguard (TV-3Bu) satellite..
1958 February 7 - . 19:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1958 February 12 - . 00:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Successfully fired at 1954 hours EST from AMR. The flight was successful in that all missions were accomplished, with the exception of the Hardtack adaptation kit mission. Impact was 258 meters over and 172 meters to the left of the predicted impact point, a radial miss distance of 310 meters. The primary objectives of the test were to test the warhead and fuse system and the guidance system. Missed aimpoint by 310 m.
1958 February 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 February 20 - . 17:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1958 February 26 - . 17:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Booster shut down at T+20 seconds.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 9 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 2.00 km (1.20 mi). The booster shut down at T+20 seconds in the flight. The vehicle was self-destructed by range safety before separation of the cruise stage had occurred..
1958 February 27 - . 19:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Successfully fired at 1459 hours EST from the AMR. The flight was successful in that all missions were accomplished. Impact was 461 meters over end 64 meters to the left of the predicted impact point, a radial miss distance of 466 meters. Missed aimpoint by 245 m.
1958 February 28 - . 13:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development Series II test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Copper heatsink nose cone.
1958 March 5 - . 18:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. FAILURE: Fourth Stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 4.
- Explorer 2 - . Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: US Army. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Explorer. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Decay Date: 1958-03-05 .
1958 March 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 March 17 - . 12:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard.
- Vanguard 1 - . Payload: Vanguard 1C / Vanguard Test Satellite. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. USAF Sat Cat: 5 . COSPAR: 1958-Beta-2. Apogee: 3,868 km (2,403 mi). Perigee: 654 km (406 mi). Inclination: 34.20 deg. Period: 133.20 min. Transmitted pear-shaped earth data. Life expectancy of perhaps a 1,000 years. The satellite had a mass of 1.6 kg and a diameter of 175 cm..
1958 March 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 March 26 - . 17:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
- Explorer 3 - . Payload: Explorer A. Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: US Army. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Explorer. Spacecraft: Explorer A. Decay Date: 1958-06-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 6 . COSPAR: 1958-Gamma-1. Apogee: 2,799 km (1,739 mi). Perigee: 186 km (115 mi). Inclination: 33.40 deg. Period: 115.70 min. Radiation, micrometeoroid data. .
1958 April 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 April 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 April 5 - . 17:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). USAF Atlas A ICBM was flown from Cape Canaveral, Fla., to the impact area some 600 miles away..
1958 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1958 April 19 - . 13:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1958 April 24 - . 00:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able. FAILURE: Thor turbopump gearbox failed T+146 sec.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Man-In-Space-Soonest.
Apogee: 80 km (49 mi).
The first Thor/Able missile, a special test vehicle designed to examine an improved General Electric lightweight, ablative nose cone at full ICBM ranges failed. Mouse 'Mia' not recovered. This was the first small beginning of a research program to determine the requirements of a space life support system. (Msg SAFIS-3C 47151, SAF to AFBMD, 29 Apr 58.)
1958 April 29 - . 02:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Third Stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Vanguard 2A - . Payload: X-ray-environmental satellite. Mass: 1.00 kg (2.20 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 1. Decay Date: 1958-04-28 . Apogee: 550 km (340 mi).
1958 May 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 May 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 May 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1958 May 17 - . 00:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Successful missile test. Missed aimpoint by 578 m..
1958 May 18 - . 05:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
AM-5, carrying America's first tactical type re-entry nose cone, was fired from AMR at 0005 hours EST. This was also the first flight test. for first and second stage separation. Impact was 28.3 nm under and 15.6 nm to the right at a range of about 1,275 nm after approximately 960 seconds of flight. In less than five hours, the nose cone was recovered - the world's first recovery of an IRBM nose cone.
1958 May 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 May 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 May 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 May 28 - . 03:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Improper third stage trajectory - unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Vanguard 2B - . Payload: Lyman Alpha satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-05-27 . Apogee: 3,500 km (2,100 mi).
1958 June 3 - . 21:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas A.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 120 km (70 mi).
The final Series A Atlas missile (16A) was launched from Cape Canaveral. Of the eight research and development launches, five had been failures, but each had provided vast quantities of important data. Last Atlas A flight, considered fully successful. Four of the eight flights were considered successful.
1958 June 4 - . 21:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
The first Air Force Thor IRBM flight test missile (Number 115) to be fired from a tactical-type launcher was launched at Cape Canaveral. The missile completed a successful flight, impacting 1,170 nautical miles downrange. This was also the first Thor to be launched without a flight readiness firing of its propulsion system. USAF Thor flight tested for the first time from a tactical-type launcher at Cape Canaveral.
1958 June 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1958 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 June 12 - . 01:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter A.
1958 June 13 - . 15:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
1958 June 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Polaris FTV-1.
1958 June 25 - . 03:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Human error - thrust controller not connected..
- Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 90 km (55 mi).
Successfully fired at 2059 hours EST from AMR. The flight was a success in that all missions were accomplished with the exception of failure of the thrust governor. This failure was caused by human error before firing which caused excess velocity, thereby exceeding the predicted impact point by 8.36 nm. Programmed range to impact was 137.31 nm. All other missions were satisfactorily completed. Missed aimpoint by 14,917 m.
1958 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 June 26 - . 05:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Premature second stage cutoff. Unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Vanguard 2C - . Payload: Lyman Alpha satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-06-26 . Apogee: 165 km (102 mi).
1958 June 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 June 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion. FAILURE: Failure.
1958 July 10 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
Mouse 'Mia II' reached 1600 km altitude, flew 9600 km range, but re-entry vehicle not recovered. The second Air Force Thor/Able reentry (nose cone) test vehicle, testing a GE ablation-type nose cone, was launched from Cape Canaveral on a 6,000-mile flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. This was the first U.S. reentry vehicle to make a full-range ICBM flight and reentry.
1958 July 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 July 13 - . 06:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
1958 July 17 - . 09:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Gaslight Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 0404 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 1,241.3 nm. The nose cone impacted 1.0 nm short and 1.5 nm to the right of the predicted impact point. This was the first flight test of the complete inertial guidance system. The nose cone recovery mission was successful. This was also the second successful flight test of a full scale tactical type nose cone, as well as a successful flight test of the Jupiter lightweight, high explosive warhead.
1958 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 July 19 - . 17:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B. FAILURE: Flight Control Failure. Failed Stage: G.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
The initial Atlas Series B missile flight test vehicle (3B) malfuncticr.ed and broke up 60 seconds after launch from the Air Force Missile Test Center at Cape Canaveral. To the basic Series A airframe, the Series B missiles added the complete North American Aviation MA-1 propulsion cluster of booster and sustainer engines, General Electric's Mod II airborne radio inertial guidance system (open loop), and GE's Mark II nose cone. First full-powered flight of USAF Atlas B ICBM using both the sustainer and booster engines. 'Marginally successful'.
1958 July 23 - . 22:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able.
- Able RTV re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
In its second successful flight test, the Thor/Able (Number 1.19) advanced reentry test vehicle demonstrated proper reentry of the advanced General Electric ablative nose cone during a 5,300-mile test flight. Two successful tests established the two-stage Thor/Able as a reliable vehicle for further special test programs. This allowed the Air Force and other government agencies to complete plans for more advanced space programs. Mouse 'Wickie' not recovered; nose cone lost.
1958 July 26 - . 06:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1958 July 26 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C.
- Explorer 4 - . Payload: Explorer B. Mass: 8.00 kg (17.60 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: DARPA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Explorer. Spacecraft: Explorer B. Decay Date: 1959-10-23 . USAF Sat Cat: 9 . COSPAR: 1958-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 1,352 km (840 mi). Perigee: 257 km (159 mi). Inclination: 50.20 deg. Period: 100.90 min. Mapped project Argus radiation. .
1958 August 2 - . 22:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
The first successful flight test of a Series B Atlas missile. This was also the first successful staging of a long-range missile. (AF Ballistic Missiles Program Status Report.) Flight test missile 4B was the first Atlas Series B missile to be launched successfully and the first ICBM to complete staging. Its 2,500-mile powered flight was the first time that the MA-1 propulsion cluster operated for the planned duration of flight. Second full-powered flight of USAF Atlas ICBM traveled 2,500 miles with radio-inertial guidance, fully successful.
1958 August 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18.
- Research and development Series III test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The last of 18 Thor research and development flight test missiles was launched from Cape Canaveral. Only seven of the 18 launches were categorized as successes while 11 were failures. .
1958 August 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi). First launching of USAF Bomarc interceptor missile from Cape Canaveral on a signal sent by the SAGE Control Center at Kingston, N.Y..
1958 August 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 August 15 - . 04:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 August 17 - . 12:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able I. FAILURE: Thor exploded after 77 sec.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Pioneer (1) - .
Payload: Pioneer / Able 1. Mass: 38 kg (83 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 0-1-2.
Decay Date: 1958-08-17 . Apogee: 16 km (9 mi).
An Air Force Thor/Able It launch vehicle, carrying the first U.S. International Geophysical Year (IGY) lunar payload, exploded 77 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral because of a first-stage engine failure. First US lunar attempt. The first US Air Force lunar probe, using a Thor-Able booster. An explosion ripped it apart 77 seconds after launch.
1958 August 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 August 24 - . 06:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. FAILURE: First Stage collided with upper stages. Second Stage ignited in wrong direction.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Explorer 5 - . Payload: Explorer C. Mass: 17 kg (37 lb). Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Agency: DARPA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft Bus: Explorer. Spacecraft: Explorer C. Decay Date: 1958-08-24 .
1958 August 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 August 27 - . 03:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. Launch Pad: LC10?. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 August 27 - . 23:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1815 hours EST. The countdown was normal. Operations were interrupted by one hold -- a 15 minute delay for minor adjustments. Ignition, main-stage, and lift-off were normal. The missile followed the pre-selected trajectory closely during powered flight, though cut-off was effected by fuel depletion rather than by pre-set guidance cut-off. The nose cone impacted 39 nm short and 15.7 nm to the left of the pre-calculated range of 1,246 nm. Jupiter 7 was the first flight test of the warhead and fuse system. This also marked the second flight test of the :Jupiter all-inertial guidance system, the fourth flight test of the NAA S-3D engine operating at 150,000 pounds thrust, and the first flight test of the solid propellant spin rocket and vernier motor.
1958 August 29 - . 04:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
1958 August 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 August 30 - . 04:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. Launch Pad: LC10?. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 August 30 - . 06:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. Launch Pad: LC10?. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 August 31 - . 00:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. Launch Pad: LC10?. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 September 2 - . 22:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. Launch Pad: LC10?. LV Family: Honest John. Launch Vehicle: Jason sounding rocket.
1958 September 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4A. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 September 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-58. Launch Vehicle: High Virgo.
- High Virgo satellite interceptor mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Type: ASAT. Apogee: 13 km (8 mi).
1958 September 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Booster performed well, but cruise stage never ignited due to fuel system failure..
- Navaho G-26 Flight 10 RISE-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 25 km (15 mi).
North American had received funding to fly seven surplus G-26 missiles in a program dubbed RISE (Research Into Supersonic Environment), ostensibly to obtain real-world data on Mach 3 flight for the F-108 interceptor and B-70 bomber that they were developing for the USAF. On this first attempt, the booster performed well, but after separation the cruise stage fuel system failed, and ramjet ignition never occurred. The cruise stage impacted 150 km downrange.
1958 September 14 - . 05:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
1958 September 17 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Programmed maneuver at re-entry and impact in deep water. Accurate survey not possible. CC-57.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 990 m..
1958 September 18 - . 21:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1958 September 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 September 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Navaho.
The remaining X-10's were expended as targets for Bomarc and Nike antiaircraft missiles. The X-10 flew out over the ocean, then accelerated toward the Cape at supersonic speed. A Bomarc A missile came within lethal miss distance. The X-10 then autolanded on the Skid Strip, but both the drag chute and landing barrier failed. The vehicle ran off the runway and exploded.
1958 September 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 September 24 - . 17:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1958 September 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 September 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Goose.
1958 September 26 - . 15:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Insufficient 2nd stage thrust - unknown cause.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Vanguard 2D - . Payload: Cloud cover satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. Decay Date: 1958-09-26 . COSPAR: F580926A. Apogee: 426 km (264 mi).
1958 September 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. Launch Vehicle: Goose.
1958 October 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 October 10 - . 03:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: Destroyed after 49 seconds of erratic flight caused by fire in the tail section.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2249 hours EST. The missile was destroyed after 49 seconds of erratic flight caused by fire in the tail section. The fire was believed to have started by a pin-hole leak near the thrust transducer which burned through the fuel and LOX transducer lines. This was the first Jupiter missile to use swivelled turbine exhaust for roll contral, also first use of solid vernier control.
1958 October 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18/pad?.
- Thor Able second test. - .
Nation: USA.
PIONEER I, U.S.-IGY space probe under direction of NASA and with the AFBMD as executive agent, launched from AMR, Cape Canaveral, Fla., by a Thor-Able-I booster. It raveled 70,700 miles before returning to earth, determined radial extent of great radiation belt, first observations of earth's and interplanetary magnetic field, and first measurements of micrometeorite density in interplanetary space.
1958 October 11 - . 08:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able I. FAILURE: Third stage produced insufficient thrust. Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Pioneer 1 - . Payload: Pioneer 1 / Able 2. Mass: 38 kg (83 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Pioneer. Class: Moon. Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 0-1-2. Decay Date: 1958-10-12 . USAF Sat Cat: 110 . COSPAR: 1958-Eta-1. A Thor/Able launched the NASA Pioneer I, the first successful space probe, to a new altitude record of over 70,000 miles. AFBMD provided the vehicle and launched it under NASA direction. Set distance record; failed to reach moon..
1958 October 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1958 October 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 October 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4A. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 October 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 October 23 - . 03:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter C. FAILURE: Upper stages separated prior to burnout. Structural failure after 149 sec due to vibration disturbances generated by the spinning payload.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Beacon 1 - .
Mass: 4.00 kg (8.80 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Technology.
Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Beacon 1.
Decay Date: 1958-10-22 .
NASA¾with the Army as executive agent¾attempted to launch a 12-foot-diameter inflatable satellite of micro-thin plastic covered with aluminum foil known as BEACON. Launched from AMR by a Juno I¾a modified Redstone, the payload prematurely separated prior to booster burnout.
1958 November 5 - . 08:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). The initial launch of an operationally configured Thor IRBM (SM-75) was conducted at Cape Canaveral, but the missile had to be destroyed at T+35 seconds after the pitch attitude gyro malfunctioned. .
1958 November 6 - . 00:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Boost phase normal. Space phase malfunction..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Redstone final development test. Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 5,010 m..
1958 November 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 November 8 - . 07:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able I. FAILURE: Third stage ignition unsuccessful.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Pioneer 2 - . Payload: Pioneer 2 / Able 3. Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Pioneer. Class: Moon. Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 0-1-2. Decay Date: 1958-11-08 . Apogee: 1,550 km (960 mi). Pioneer 2 was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range, using a Thor-Able booster, the Air Force acting as executive agent to NASA. The 86.3-pound instrumented payload, intended as a lunar probe, failed to reach escape velocity..
1958 November 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 November 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 2 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. The X-10 flew out over the ocean, then accelerated toward the Cape. However the Bomarc A failed to launch. Autoland was successful, but again the drag chute and landing barrier both failed, and the vehicle burned after overrunning the runway..
1958 November 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. Launch Vehicle: Goose.
1958 November 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 November 18 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
1958 November 18 - . 21:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC9. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho G-26. FAILURE: Disintegrated at moment of booster shutdown.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Navaho G-26 Flight 11 RISE-2 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 23 km (14 mi). The vehicle disintegrated at 23.5 km altitude at the time of booster shutdown and cruse stage separation. The USAF canceled further RISE flights and this definitively marked the end of the Navaho..
1958 November 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 November 26 - . 09:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). First operational launch.
1958 November 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. Launch Vehicle: Goose.
1958 November 29 - . 02:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-3 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). Less than 18 months after the first flight, a USAF Atlas made its first successful full-range operational test flight in a 6,325 statute-mile flight, landed close to its target..
1958 December 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 December 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1958 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. Launch Vehicle: Goose.
1958 December 6 - . 00:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1958 December 6 - . 05:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: First Stage shut down too early. Partial Failure.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Pioneer 3 - .
Mass: 6.00 kg (13.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 3-4.
Decay Date: 1958-12-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 111 . COSPAR: 1958-Theta-1.
Failed to reach moon; provided radiation data. Pioneer III, the third U.S.-IGY intended lunar probe under the direction of NASA with the Army acting as executive agent, was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range by a Juno II rocket. The primary objective, to place the 12.95 pound scientific payload in the vicinity of the moon, failed. Pioneer III reached an altitude of approximately 70,000 miles and revealed that the earth's radiation belt comprised at least two distinct bands.
1958 December 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 December 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 December 13 - . 08:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Bioflight 1 Biological mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Gordo launched into space. Fired from AMR at 0353 hours EST. The missile's nose cone impacted in the pre-selected target area at a range of approximately 1,302 nm. The significant mission of the missile was the flight of a South American squirrel monkey `Gordo' up to and down from outer space. Although nose cone recovery efforts failed because the float mechanism attached to the nose cone did not function, telemetry data provided useful biomedical information and disclosed that the Navy-trained squirrel monkey had withstood the space flight and reentry phase without any adverse physiological effects. Gordo was in a weightless state for 8.3 minutes, he experienced a 10g pressure in takeoff, and a 40g pressure upon reentry at 10,000 miles per hour. The flight was considered one of the outstanding achievements of space research. The impact was 5.2 nm over and 0.75 nm to the right of impact point. The overshoot was caused by interaction which occurred at separation between the booster and aft sections. A temporary cable connecting the two bodies had not been removed prior to launch.
1958 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1958 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1958 December 17 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1958 December 18 - . 23:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
- Score - .
Mass: 70 kg (154 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Score.
Decay Date: 1959-01-21 . USAF Sat Cat: 10 . COSPAR: 1958-Zeta-1. Apogee: 1,484 km (922 mi). Perigee: 185 km (114 mi). Inclination: 32.30 deg. Period: 101.50 min.
Signal Communication by Orbiting Relay Equipment; first commsat; transmitted taped messages for 13 days. Project Score, Atlas rocket placed in orbit carrying communications equipment which relayed President Eisenhower's Christmas message to the world from outer space. (AF Ballistic Missiles Program Status Report.)
1958 December 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 December 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-58. Launch Vehicle: High Virgo.
1958 December 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1958 December 24 - . 04:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 900 km (550 mi). First Atlas C flight (3C), successful..
1958 December 30 - . 15:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1958 December 31 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Arcas.
1959 January 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 January 16 - . 04:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 January 19 - . 15:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 January 22 - . 00:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Tactical test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Tactical Test. The first Chrysler production qualification missile was fired from AMR at 1910 hours EST. The nose cone impacted in the pre-selected target area at a range of 1,302 nm. Miss distance was 3 nm over and 1 nm to the left of the target. The overshoot was caused by failure of the vernier engine to cut off high resistance of the squib firing circuit. Primary missions were successfully accomplished.
1959 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
1959 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 January 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral RW30/12. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Navaho X-10.
- Navaho X-10 Drone BOMARC target mission 3 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Program: Navaho. The X-10 was launched with only one electrical generator due to a lack of any remaining spares. As it headed out over the ocean, that generator failed. It lost all electrical power, and crashed into the ocean 105 km downrange..
1959 January 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4A. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 January 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 January 27 - . 23:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C.
- Mod II re-entry vehicle research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 990 km (610 mi).
1959 January 30 - . 23:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 February 4 - . 08:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas B.
- Research and development / AFSWC-4? test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 990 km (610 mi). Last Atlas B flight, fully successful.
1959 February 6 - . 21:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). First test launch of USAF Titan ICBM (A-3) from Cape Canaveral. Dummy second stage (500 km range)..
1959 February 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 February 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 February 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Draco.
1959 February 17 - . 15:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard.
- Vanguard 2 - . Payload: Vanguard 2E / Cloud cover satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 2. USAF Sat Cat: 11 . COSPAR: 1959-Alpha-1. Apogee: 3,049 km (1,894 mi). Perigee: 557 km (346 mi). Inclination: 32.90 deg. Period: 122.80 min. Operated for 18 days; satellite wobble degraded data..
1959 February 20 - . 05:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 February 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 February 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 February 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 February 25 - . 19:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1959 February 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 February 27 - . 19:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 February 27 - . 23:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1850 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting the nose cone in a pre-calculated target (MILS Network) was successfully accomplished, The nose cone impacted in the 1,302 nm target area, 2.8 nm over, with no lateral deviations. Again, the vernier engine ran to cut-off rather than the commanded 14 seconds -- a near perfect flight. For the first rime, missile roll was controlled by a turbine exhaust nozzle designed to eliminate problems experienced on previous flights.
1959 February 28 - . 07:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Re-entry Vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
In the first use of a Thor as a space booster, the world's first polar orbiting satellite, Discoverer I, was launched by a Thor/Agena (Thor 163) booster combination from Vandenberg AFB. The mission was also the first successful flight test of Lockheed's Agena A upper stage vehicle designed for orbiting U.S. satellite systems.
1959 March 3 - . 05:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II.
- Pioneer 4 - .
Mass: 6.00 kg (13.20 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer 3-4.
USAF Sat Cat: 113 . COSPAR: 1959-Nu-1.
The fourth U.S.-IGY lunar probe effort, Pioneer IV, a joint project of the Army Ballistic Missile Agency and Jet Propulsion Laboratory under the direction of NASA, was launched by a Juno II rocket from the Atlantic Missile Range. Intended to impact on the lunar surface, Pioneer IV achieved earth-moon trajectory, passing within 60,200 km of the moon before going into permanent orbit around the sun.
1959 March 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 March 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 March 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Draco.
1959 March 19 - . 00:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- RVX-2 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 200 km (120 mi).
1959 March 21 - . 06:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
1959 March 22 - . 00:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 March 27 - . 04:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 March 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 April 3 - . 17:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1959 April 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1959 April 4 - . 00:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1934 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting a nose cone in a pre-calculated target area (MILS Network) was successfully accomplished with an impact of 0.8 nm under end 5.0 nm to the left of the 1,302 nm range. The lateral miss was believed to have been caused by a drifting gyro.
1959 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Operational test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). First operational test flight of Snark..
1959 April 8 - . 06:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
- RVX-1 Reentry test / particles mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,230 km (760 mi).
A Thor/Able reentry test vehicle launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, completed a successful flight down the Atlantic Missile Range. The reentry body of the Thor/Able was recovered at the far end of the range in the South Atlantic. This was the first recovery of an ablative nose cone following an ICBM-range flight.
1959 April 14 - . 02:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Stage 2 damaged at separation.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Vanguard 3A - . Payload: Magnetometer satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. Decay Date: 1959-04-13 . Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
- 30-inch Sphere - . Payload: Air density satellite. Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).
1959 April 14 - . 21:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).
The first Atlas D model flight test missile (3D) had to be destroyed 36 seconds into flight due to a severe engine malfunction and explosions. In addition to other changes, the D series replaced the MA-1 engine package with the Rocketdyne MA-2. The booster engines in the MA-2 produced 309,000 pounds of thrust versus 300,000 pounds for the MA-1. Sustainer engine thrust remained 57,000 pounds. With verniers, total thrust for the MA-2 was 368,000 pounds compared to 357,000 for the MA-1 engine package.
1959 April 20 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX.
1959 April 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 April 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 April 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 April 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 April 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 April 23 - . 05:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Fourth recovery of a data capsule at AMR, USAF Thor 1,500-mile accuracy test flight..
1959 April 25 - . 05:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC10. LV Family: Sergeant. Launch Vehicle: Draco. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 May 4 - . 18:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1959 May 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 May 7 - . 01:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2047 hours EST. All primary missions were essentially successful, although the impact was 69 nm short and 4.9 nm to the right of the 1,302 nm predicted impact point. This undershoot was due to thrust controller deviation which commanded the exceedingly high thrust level during the main power flight pre-selected flight path. Cut-off occurred at 144 seconds of flight.
1959 May 8 - . 19:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX.
1959 May 12 - . 17:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 May 14 - . 05:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 0052 hours EST to test impact accuracy. This shot may be considered as having hit the target. The impact was: .26 nm over and 0.4 nm to the left of the predicted point of impact. Accuracy of the MILS Network was approximated at plus-or-minus 0.25 nm. All primary and secondary missions were accomplished except for photographic recording of the second separation. This could not be accomplished because of the firing date.
1959 May 18 - . 23:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 May 19 - . 04:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 May 21 - . 06:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
1959 May 23 - . 02:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 May 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 May 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 May 28 - . 07:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Bioflight 2 Test/Ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 483 km (300 mi).
Able and Baker recovered after spaceflight. Fired from AMR at 0235 hours EST. The flight was successful with impact ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 nm from the target. The missile travelled a 1,302 nm range. The significant mission of the missile was to test the effects of cosmic radiation, increased gravity, and weightlessness on live passengers and biomedical experiments of material housed in the nose cone. On board were an American-born rhesus monkey, Able; a squirrel monkey, Baker; and the biomedical experiments -- yeast , corn, mustard seeds, fruit-fly larvae, human blood, mould spore, and fish eggs. Able and Baker were recovered unharmed within one and one-half hours after lift-off. This milestone marked the first recovery of living creatures from a flight through near space. The biomedical experiments were for NASA analysis. Telemetry data disclosed that the responses of the animals were normal for the conditions they were experiencing. During the boost phase, when the higher g-loads were being sustained, body temperature, respiration, pulse rate, and heartbeat rose but were well within tolerable limits. During the weightless period along the trajectory arc, the physiological responses of Able and Baker approached normal - so near, in fact, that according to telemetry data, Baker appeared either to doze or to become drowsy. Upon reentry, the responses rose again, but at landing the animals were nearing a settled physiological state. This flight was another milestone proving that life could be sustained in a space environment.
1959 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-58. Launch Vehicle: High Virgo.
1959 June 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
1959 June 6 - . 17:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 June 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1959 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1959 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 June 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 June 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 June 11 - . 06:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
1959 June 12 - . 18:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 June 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1959 June 22 - . 20:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard. FAILURE: Stage 2 propulsion malfunction.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Vanguard 3B - . Payload: Radiation Balance satellite. Mass: 10 kg (22 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. Decay Date: 1959-06-22 . Apogee: 140 km (80 mi).
1959 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 June 29 - . 15:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX.
1959 June 30 - . 02:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV Lofted Trajectory research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
1959 July 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 July 10 - . 01:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test / ionosphere mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2001 hours EST to test missile accuracy. All primary and secondary missions were successfully accomplished and impact was well within 1 nm of the pre-selected point, approximately 1,302 nm downrange -- a miss distance of only 0.48 nm short and 0.09 nm to the right.
1959 July 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 July 15 - . 16:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 July 16 - . 17:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: Control lost after 5.5 sec. Destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Explorer S-1 - . Payload: S-1. Mass: 41 kg (90 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-1. Decay Date: 1959-07-16 .
1959 July 21 - . 05:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C.
- Research and development / AFSWC-5 test / particles mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 900 km (550 mi).
The first full-scale test of an ablation reentry vehicle (RVX-2) was conducted with the launch and successful flight of Atlas 8C. Following the 4,385 NM flight into the South Atlantic, the reentry vehicle was recovered. A full-scale USAF Atlas ICBM nose cone recovered for the first time after flight down the AMR.
1959 July 21 - . 07:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 July 22 - . 04:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control system malfunction during re-entry at 380 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 684 m..
1959 July 24 - . 12:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). USAF Thor data capsule recovered near Antigua which contained movie film showing nose cone separation..
1959 July 29 - . 04:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). First Atlas successful D missile flight.After three consecutive failures (3D, 7D, and 5D), Atlas missile 11D became the first Series D flight test missile to complete a successful launch from Cape Canaveral..
1959 August 5 - . 02:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Pre-launch tanking error caused early cut-off by fuel depletion..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 2,707 m..
1959 August 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 August 6 - . 02:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 August 7 - . 14:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able III.
- Explorer 6 - . Payload: S-2. Mass: 64 kg (141 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-2. Decay Date: 1961-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 15 . COSPAR: 1959-Delta-1. Apogee: 42,400 km (26,300 mi). Perigee: 245 km (152 mi). Inclination: 47.00 deg. Period: 765.00 min. First Earth photo; radiation data..
1959 August 11 - . 18:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1959 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC3. Launch Pad: LC3/4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 August 14 - . 09:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 August 14 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).
Titan missile B-5, scheduled to be the first fully powered-flight test missile, was heavily damaged when a faulty release mechanism allowed an earlier-than-planned liftoff that resulted in engine shutdown and the missile's dropping back on the launch pad.
1959 August 14 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX.
1959 August 15 - . 00:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: First stage shut down too early; no attitude control for upper stages.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Beacon 2 - . Mass: 5.00 kg (11.00 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: Beacon 1. Decay Date: 1959-08-14 .
1959 August 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1959 August 24 - . 15:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C.
- Research and development / AFSWC-6 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
The final Atlas Series C missile, 11C, was fired from Cape Canaveral. Three of the six Atlas C research and development test missiles were successful, while the other three were failures. Last successful Atlas C flight (11C); 9C exploded one month later during the Able static firing.
1959 August 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 August 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 August 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 August 27 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Short range research and development mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
A short range (300 nm) IRBM, was fired from AMR at 2030 hours EST. The nose cone impacted 0.03 nm short and, 0.22 nm to the right, of the intended target. This was the first Jupiter missile to be programmed for a short range flight. All primary and secondary missions were accomplished.
1959 August 27 - . 12:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 August 27 - . 16:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX.
1959 September 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 September 9 - . 08:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Mercury BJ-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 153 km (95 mi).
A NASA boilerplate model of the Mercury capsule was launched atop Atlas 10D from Cape Canaveral. Although the range was less than planned due to failure of the Atlas booster engine section to separate, the capsule was recovered in the South Atlantic after surviving reentry heat of more than 10,000°F.
1959 September 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 September 15 - . 21:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM. FAILURE: The flight was erratic at lift-off and the missile destroyed itself after 13 seconds, just before command destruct. Failure of a silver soldered connection joint to the pressure sphere caused destruction of the missile.. Failed Stage: G.
- Bioflight 3 Biological mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Scheduled for launch at 0430 hours EST, was fired from AMR at 1645 hours EST. The nose cane housed several NASA biological specimens, including 14 mice..
1959 September 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II. FAILURE: Third stage failed.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Transit 1A - . Payload: Transit 1A. Mass: 119 kg (262 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1959-09-17 . A Thor/Able II booster carrying the Navy's Transit IA navigation satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral. A third stage malfunction prevented the satellite from achieving orbit. First Transit test satellite; failed to reach orbit..
1959 September 17 - . 02:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1959 September 18 - . 05:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. Launch Vehicle: Vanguard.
- Vanguard 3 - . Payload: Vanguard 3C / Magne-Ray satellite. Mass: 23 kg (50 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Vanguard. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Vanguard 3. USAF Sat Cat: 20 . COSPAR: 1959-Eta-1. Apogee: 3,413 km (2,120 mi). Perigee: 512 km (318 mi). Inclination: 33.40 deg. Period: 126.40 min. Radiation, micrometeoroid data. Third stage failed to separate from payload. The TV-4BU burned-out third stage was left attached to the payload since the fiberglas case did not adversely affect the experiments..
1959 September 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1959 September 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 September 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 September 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-58. Launch Vehicle: High Virgo. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 September 22 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Ionosphere/Meteorites mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 September 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas C Able. FAILURE: Vehicle exploded on pad.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Atlas C Able explodes on pad during static test. - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Program: Pioneer.
A participant remembers:
I live near the Cape on Merritt Island and have been here for about 41 years. I worked for the ARMA Corp that developed the Atlas Inertial Guidance System. I was in the Blockhouse at Complex 11 while a static test was performed on an Atlas Able on Complex 12. It did explode. Did it ever! After a couple of hours the six of us were allowed out of the blockhouse and saw all the damage to our complex...I had a tiny piece of that missile for a long time that somehow wound up on my person...labeled 9C.
The next Atlas Able would not fly until over a year later, using the Atlas D as the booster stage.
1959 September 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 September 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
1959 September 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 October 1 - . 01:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 2028 hours EST. The primary mission of impacting the nose cone in a pre-calculated target area was successfully accomplished . The missile covered a pre-calculated range of 1,299.4 nm, with the nose cone impacting within 1.25 nm of the predicted point. In addition to the usual ST-90 Stabiliser Platform, the missile carried a second system for relative accuracy and for drift investigations. It also housed a telemetry system. A significant mission was to determine environmental flight conditions.
1959 October 2 - . 18:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris AX. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 October 6 - . 05:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mk 3 Mod 1 re-entry vehicle research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1959 October 6 - . 16:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 10 - . 03:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1959 October 12 - . 18:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 October 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-47. Launch Vehicle: Bold Orion.
1959 October 13 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II.
- Explorer 7 - . Payload: S-1A. Mass: 42 kg (92 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-1. USAF Sat Cat: 22 . COSPAR: 1959-Iota-1. Apogee: 857 km (532 mi). Perigee: 523 km (324 mi). Inclination: 50.30 deg. Period: 98.60 min. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space. Returned magnetic field and solar flare data..
1959 October 14 - . 04:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 October 22 - . 03:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The first full range tactical prototype, was fired from AMR at 2220 hours EST. All missions assigned to the flight was successfully accomplished. The missile covered a prescribed range of 1,600.448 nm, with the nose cone impacting 0.9 nm short and 0.6 nm to the right. This was the fourth Chrysler-assembled missile to be flight tested.
1959 October 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 October 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 October 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1959 October 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1959 October 29 - . 02:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 October 29 - . 07:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). USAF Atlas successfully launched from Cape Canaveral carrying a nose-cone camera which took a series of photographs of the earth's cloud cover from a 300-mile altitude..
1959 October 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1959 November 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi).
1959 November 4 - . 21:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1959 November 5 - . 00:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1938 hours EST to a pre-selected range of 1,299.4 nm. The nose cone impacted 0.56 nm short and 0.09 nm right of the impact point. The test successfully accomplished all intended missions. This was the first highly successful, Chrysler-assembled Jupiter fired in the test program sad was the first fired without static firing.
1959 November 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 November 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 November 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 November 19 - . 01:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Successfully fired from AMR at 2031 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 664.8 nm. Nose cone impacted 0.9 nm over and 1.0 nm left of the target. This was the first medium range flight for a tactical prototype..
1959 November 20 - . 17:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1959 November 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 November 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 November 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 November 24 - . 19:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1959 November 26 - . 07:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Able. FAILURE: Payload shroud failed after 45 sec, broke away prematurely.. Failed Stage: S.
- Pioneer (P 3) - .
Payload: Pioneer P 3 / Able IVB. Mass: 168 kg (370 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer P 3.
Decay Date: 1959-11-26 . Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
An intended lunar probe launched from the Atlantic Missile Range by an Atlas-Able booster disintegrated about 45 seconds later when the protective sheath covering the payload detached prematurely. The probe was sponsored by NASA, developed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and launched by the Air Force Ballistic Missile Division.
1959 December 1 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
1959 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1959 December 7 - . 20:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1959 December 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1959 December 9 - . 00:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1959 December 10 - . 00:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Fired from AMR at 1908 hours EST. The original countdown of 480 minutes was shortened to 240 minutes. The flight was successful in all phases. The nose cone impacted 0.3 nm over and 2.0 nm right of the 2,299.4 nm range..
1959 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 December 12 - . 17:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Exploded just above pad. Failed Stage: 1.
- RVX-3 Re-entry Vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). The first flight testing of Titan staging and second stage engine ignition was unsuccessful when Titan C-3 exploded at liftoff due to a faulty relay in the command destruct system. First Titan ICBM launching testing second stage was unsuccessful at AMR..
1959 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1959 December 16 - . 04:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 December 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18A.
- Series IV research and development launch/Meteorites mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 520 km (320 mi). Flight testing of the Thor IRBM was completed with the launch of Thor 217 from Pad 18B at Cape Canaveral, Florida. .
1959 December 17 - . 00:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Fired from AMR at 1903 hours EST to a prescribed distance of 300 nm. The flight was successful in all phases. Impact was 0.3 nm to the right of the 300 nm range. .
1959 December 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1959 December 19 - . 00:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas ICBM made second successful 6,325-mile flight at AMR..
1959 December 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral.
- Patrick AFB designation changes. - .
The 6555th Guided Missile Group (Test and Evaluation), located at the Air Force Missile Test Center (AFMTC) at Patrick AFB, Florida, was redesignated the 6555th Test Wing (Development). Concurrently, AFBMD's Office of the Assistant Commander for Missile Tests at AFMTC was discontinued, and its personnel, equipment, and functions reassigned to the new 6555th Test Wing.
1959 December 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1959 December 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 January 7 - . 01:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). 43D achieved a 6300 NM (7200 SM) flight from AMR with enough residual fuel for an additional 2000 miles.
1960 January 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 January 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 January 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 January 13 - . 21:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 January 14 - . 16:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18C.
1960 January 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 January 26 - . 00:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville,
USAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Fired from AMR at 1948 hours EST to a prescribed range of: 1,299.4 nm. The nose cone impacted 0.04 nm over and 3.27 nm to the left. All missions were successfully accomplished despite elevated temperatures in the tail section. The primary mission of this flight was to test the two-way deflector launch section and to analyse elevated temperatures in the tail
1960 January 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 January 27 - . 01:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 January 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Pad: LC4?. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1960 February 2 - . 18:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Test mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
Titan test missile B7A completed a 2,200-mile flight, achieving successful staging and ignition of the second stage engine at high altitude. The Stage II engine, XLR-91-AJ-1, performed as planned, and the missile impacted almost exactly on target. This was the first successful Titan launch and flight since 4 May 1959.
1960 February 4 - . 22:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 February 5 - . 00:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Huntsville, USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). The 28th R&D firing was from AMR at 1919 hours EST to a pre-calculated range of 1,299 nm. The flight successfully accomplished all primary and secondary missions. The nose cone impacted 0.65 nm short and 0.52 nm right of the intended target..
1960 February 5 - . 21:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 February 9 - . 17:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18C.
1960 February 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 February 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 February 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 February 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 February 12 - . 04:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 February 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Able. FAILURE: Vehicle exploded in static firing.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Pioneer (P 31) - . Payload: Pioneer P 31. Nation: USA. Program: Pioneer. Class: Moon. Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer P 3. Decay Date: 1960-02-15 . COSPAR: F600215A.
1960 February 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
Titan flight test missile G-4 was launched from Cape Canaveral and completed all test objectives in the first successful long-range flight, with the reentry vehicle impacting 4,335-NM downrange. This flight was the longest to date by a Titan and demonstrated the integrity of all basic design parameters as well as Bell Telephone Laboratories radio-inertial guidance systems.
1960 February 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 February 25 - . 18:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
- P-01 - . Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 250 km (150 mi). First test launch of Army's Pershing tactical missile from Cape Canaveral..
1960 February 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 February 26 - . 17:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena A. FAILURE: Second stage failed to separate.. Failed Stage: U.
- Midas 1 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1008. Mass: 2,025 kg (4,464 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1960-02-26 .
The Air Force MIDAS I satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral in the first successful launch of the Atlas D/Agena A booster-upper stage combination. MIDAS I, however, failed to achieve orbit because an accident at the Atlas-Agena staging damaged the Agena. The entire vehicle reentered and burned up about 2,500 miles downrange. Missile Defense Alarm System.
1960 February 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 February 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 February 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DM-18C.
1960 March 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 March 8 - . 13:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). First USAF Atlas R&D flight using all-inertial guidance system..
1960 March 8 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 March 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 March 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 March 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 March 11 - . 00:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1960 March 11 - . 13:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able IV.
- Pioneer 5 - .
Payload: Pioneer P 2 / Able 6. Mass: 43 kg (94 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Pioneer.
Class: Astronomy.
Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: Pioneer 5.
USAF Sat Cat: 27 . COSPAR: 1960-Alpha-1.
An Air Force Thor/Able IV booster launched the NASA Pioneer V spacecraft on its journey to Venus. The satellite measured radiation and magnetic fields between Earth and Venus. The last scientific measurements were transmitted back to Earth on 26 June, three and one-half months after launch, from almost 22.5 million miles in space. Pioneer V was by far the most successful space probe yet launched. AFBMD and Space Technology Laboratories managed the Pioneer V satellite, payload, and booster for NASA and provided launch services at Cape Canaveral. Solar research. Solar Orbit (Heliocentric). Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B).
1960 March 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 March 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- RVX-4 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan fired 5,000 statute miles / 8000 km and data capsule recovered..
1960 March 22 - . 01:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control system malfunction during re-entry at 373 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 315 m..
1960 March 23 - . 13:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: Upper stage failed to ignite. Third stage failed to ignite due to loss of radio contact.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Explorer S-46 - . Payload: S-46. Mass: 16 kg (35 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-46. Decay Date: 1960-03-23 .
1960 March 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 March 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 March 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 March 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 April 1 - . 11:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Able II.
- Tiros 1 - .
Payload: Tiros A (A-1). Mass: 120 kg (260 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Tiros.
Class: Earth.
Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros.
USAF Sat Cat: 29 . COSPAR: 1960-Beta-2. Apogee: 696 km (432 mi). Perigee: 656 km (407 mi). Inclination: 48.40 deg. Period: 98.30 min.
A Thor/Able II booster placed NASA's Television and Infrared Observation Satellite (TIROS) weather satellite into the most accurate orbit yet achieved by any U.S. satellite. TIROS I opened a new era in meteorology by transmitting nearly 23,000 pictures of global cloud cover from 450 miles in space and providing the first glimpse of global cloud structure data. TIROS I completed 1,302 orbits before its operational life ceased on 29 June 1960. TV and Infrared Observation Satellite; returned 22952 cloud cover photos. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C).
1960 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC2. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 April 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 April 8 - . 02:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). Atlas 48D, intended to be the first closed-loop test of the Arma all-inertial guidance system, exploded immediately after launch release as a result of combustion instability in the MA-2 engine..
1960 April 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 April 13 - . 12:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 1B - .
Mass: 121 kg (266 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: DARPA.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Duration: 89.00 days. Decay Date: 1967-10-05 . USAF Sat Cat: 31 . COSPAR: 1960-Gamma-2. Apogee: 644 km (400 mi). Perigee: 363 km (225 mi). Inclination: 51.20 deg. Period: 94.60 min.
The first Thor/Ablestar launched from Cape Canaveral placed the Navy's Transit IB navigation satellite into orbit. This was the first navigation satellite to be placed in orbit. The Ablestar upper stage demonstrated the first engine restart in space. The Able-Star second stage demonstrated the first engine restart in space and the feasibility of using satellites as navigational aids. The first experimental Transit satellite to achieve orbit operated for 89 days. It transmitted on two frequency pairs to test the technique for refraction correction and to determine if the transmitted frequencies should be close together or far apart. It also tested a magnetic torque device for spacecraft attitude control - the first satellite to do so.
- Dummy subsatellite - . Payload: GRAB dummy. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB. Decay Date: 1960-07-17 . USAF Sat Cat: 33 . COSPAR: 1960-Gamma-3. Apogee: 615 km (382 mi). Perigee: 285 km (177 mi). Inclination: 51.30 deg. Period: 93.60 min. Mass model of GRAB ELINT satellite..
1960 April 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC4. Launch Vehicle: Bomarc.
1960 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 April 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: T-AGM-12. Launch Vehicle: Arcas.
1960 April 20 - . 18:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 April 21 - . 20:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 April 26 - . 01:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 April 28 - . 20:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 April 29 - . 23:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 April 30 - . 03:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 May 10 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 May 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 May 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 May 13 - . 09:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta. FAILURE: Second stage attitude control failure.. Failed Stage: U.
- Echo 1 - .
Payload: A-10. Mass: 56 kg (123 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Communications.
Type: Civilian communications satellite. Spacecraft: Echo.
Decay Date: 1960-05-13 .
The first three-stage, NASA-developed Thor/Delta space booster was launched from Cape Canaveral, but the Echo passive communications satellite failed to achieve orbit due to a second stage malfunction. This booster was for NASA programs and used the basic Thor first stage with a modified Vanguard second stage as its upper stage configuration.
1960 May 13 - . 21:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 May 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 May 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 May 20 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
Atlas 56D carried a 3,000-pound payload 7,859 nautical miles (9,040 statute miles) from Cape Canaveral to the target area in the Indian Ocean. This was the longest U.S. missile flight to date. Payload was an operational weight nose cone plus instrumentation. Missile attained an apogee of about 1,000 miles.
1960 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 May 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 May 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 May 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 May 24 - . 17:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena A.
- Midas 2 - .
Payload: Midas / Agena TV 1007. Mass: 2,300 kg (5,000 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Early warning satellite. Spacecraft Bus: WS-117.
Spacecraft: Midas.
Decay Date: 1974-02-07 . USAF Sat Cat: 43 . COSPAR: 1960-Zeta-1. Apogee: 494 km (306 mi). Perigee: 473 km (293 mi). Inclination: 33.00 deg. Period: 94.30 min.
Missile Defense Alarm System. Test launch with W-17 sensor. The last Atlas D/Agena A booster to be used by the Air Force placed into orbit the MIDAS II infrared scanning satellite designed to detect and give early warning of missile launchings. Although intended to function for 40 months, the satellite's telemetry system failed on 26 May. MIDAS II was the first early warning satellite system placed in orbit.
1960 May 27 - . 17:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 June 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 June 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 June 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 June 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 9 - . 16:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 11 - . 06:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas flight test missile 54D completed the first successful demonstration of accuracy and reliability of the closed-loop Arma all-inertial guidance system. .
1960 June 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 June 22 - . 05:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 2A - .
Mass: 101 kg (222 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 45 . COSPAR: 1960-Eta-1. Apogee: 988 km (613 mi). Perigee: 604 km (375 mi). Inclination: 66.70 deg. Period: 100.80 min.
A Thor/Ablestar booster placed a U.S. Navy Transit IIA research and development navigation satellite into orbit using the Ablestar second stage with a restart engine. A smaller parasitic radiation-measuring satellite, the Galactic Radiation Experiment Background (GREB), was also placed into orbit. This was the first time two satellites had been carried in "piggyback" alignment on a single booster. Also returned geodetic data. Similar to Transit 1B, it transmitted until 26 October 1962. A planned Transit 2B was considered redundant and never built.
- Solrad 1 - .
Payload: Grab 1. Mass: 19 kg (41 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB.
USAF Sat Cat: 46 . COSPAR: 1960-Eta-2. Apogee: 935 km (580 mi). Perigee: 596 km (370 mi). Inclination: 66.70 deg. Period: 100.20 min.
ELINT satellite, retransmitting to US ground stations signals from Soviet radar stations. Classified at time; official purpose and secondary payload collected solar radiation data. Officially: Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B).
1960 June 22 - . 14:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Electrical Failure.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). 50th Atlas to be flown at AMR, successful.
1960 June 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 June 23 - . 02:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 June 23 - . 05:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC22. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 June 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Asp. Launch Vehicle: Nike Asp.
1960 June 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 June 28 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development / ionosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 June 30 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 July 1 - . 17:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Destroyed 90 m above pad. Failed Stage: 1.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). The attempt to launch the first operational configuration Titan I ICBM (J-2) from Cape Canaveral was a failure. Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV).
1960 July 2 - . 06:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 July 6 - . 15:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 July 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 July 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 July 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 July 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 July 13 - . 18:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 July 13 - . 19:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 July 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 July 15 - . 06:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 July 19 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 July 20 - . 17:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 July 20 - . 20:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 July 26 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 July 28 - . 21:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: 130 km range. Failed Stage: 1.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi). Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV).
1960 July 29 - . 13:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Structural failure of Atlas.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Mercury MA-1 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 13 km (8 mi).
The first Mercury-Atlas -D (MA-1) was successfully launched from Cape Canaveral to test the Mercury capsule and Atlas D booster for future use in NASA's Project Mercury manned orbital flight program. Mercury-Atlas 1 (MA-1) was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range in a test of spacecraft structural integrity under maximum heating conditions. After 58.5 seconds of flight, MA-1 exploded and the spacecraft was destroyed upon impact off-shore. None of the primary capsule test objectives were met. The mission objectives were to check the integrity of the spacecraft structure and afterbody shingles for a reentry associated with a critical abort and to evaluate the open-loop performance of the Atlas abort-sensing instrumentation system. The spacecraft contained no escape system and no test subject. Standard posigrade rockets were used to separate the spacecraft from the Atlas, but the retrorockets were dummies. The flight was terminated because of a launch vehicle and adapter structural failure. The spacecraft was destroyed upon impact with the water because the recovery system was not designed to actuate under the imposed flight conditions. Later most of the spacecraft, the booster engines, and the liquid oxygen vent valve were recovered from the ocean floor. Since none of the primary flight objectives was achieved, Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) was planned to fulfill the mission.
1960 July 30 - . 20:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 August 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 August 1 - . 17:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 August 3 - . 00:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25B. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 August 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 August 8 - . 17:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 8 - . 17:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 9 - . 18:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development / aeronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1960 August 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 August 10 - . 01:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Erroneously destroyed during boost by range personnel.. Failed Stage: G.
1960 August 10 - . 22:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).
The first successful launch and flight of an operational prototype Titan I occurred on 10 August 1960. After two previous failures, Titan missile J-7 was the first operational prototype to be launched and complete a successful flight test down the Atlantic Missile Range. Titan 1 J (Mk 4 RV)
1960 August 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 August 11 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 11 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 12 - . 09:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Echo 1 - .
Payload: A-11. Mass: 76 kg (167 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Echo.
Decay Date: 1968-05-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 49 . COSPAR: 1960-Iota-1. Apogee: 2,157 km (1,340 mi). Perigee: 966 km (600 mi). Inclination: 47.30 deg. Period: 117.30 min.
A Thor/Delta was launched from Cape Canaveral carrying NASA's Echo I, the first passive communications satellite to be placed into orbit. Balloon; passively relayed TV and voice transmissions. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C).
1960 August 12 - . 13:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 August 12 - . 13:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 12 - . 14:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 12 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 12 - . 16:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 12 - . 18:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 August 15 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 15 - . 18:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 18 - . 19:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar. FAILURE: Exploded 2.5 minutes after launch.. Failed Stage: U.
- Courier 1A - . Mass: 225 kg (496 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: DARPA. Class: Communications. Type: Military communications satellite. Spacecraft: Courier. Decay Date: 1960-08-18 . Discoverer XIV was launched from Vandenberg AFB aboard a Thor/Agena A booster.' Experimental communications sattelite..
1960 August 19 - . 03:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 August 19 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 19 - . 17:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 22 - . 16:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 22 - . 16:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 August 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 August 24 - . 18:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 24 - . 18:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 25 - . 15:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 25 - . 15:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 25 - . 15:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Vehicle: Loki.
1960 August 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Category IIE-7, Sta12 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 August 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 September 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 September 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 September 13 - . 17:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 September 15 - . 21:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 September 17 - . 00:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 September 19 - . 18:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). Atlas ICBM fired 9030 statute miles, from Cape Canaveral to the Indian Ocean off the Cape of Good Hope in 50 minutes, the second record distance flight..
1960 September 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 September 21 - . 13:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr.
- Blue Scout first launch, with Radiation Probe (HETS) payload. - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 26,700 km (16,500 mi). USAF Blue Scout rocket fired from Cape Canaveral placed instrumented payload 16,600 miles above the earth, the first of 11 such tests, but no data were received due to radio malfunction..
1960 September 22 - . 22:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 September 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 September 23 - . 01:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 September 25 - . 15:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Able. FAILURE: Second stage exploded.. Failed Stage: U.
- Pioneer (P 30) - . Payload: Pioneer P 30 / Able VA. Mass: 175 kg (385 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Pioneer. Class: Moon. Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer P 3. Decay Date: 1960-09-25 . Apogee: 1,290 km (800 mi). An attempt to launch a Pioneer satellite into lunar orbit failed when one of the upper stages of the Atlas- Able rocket malfunctioned..
1960 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Category IIE-8, Sta12 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
1960 September 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 September 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 September 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 September 28 - . 19:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 September 29 - . 14:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 October 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Thor-based LV 100th launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: Eisenhower.
COURIER I-B active communications satellite successfully placed into orbit by Thor-Able-Star launch vehicle from Cape Canaveral. After completing one orbit it received and recorded a transcribed message to the United Nations by President Eisenhower transmitted from Fort Monmouth, N.J., and retransmitted it to another earth station in Puerto Rico. This marked the 100th launch of the Douglas Thor, military and scientific combined, and a Thor record of 60 percent of the U.S. satellites boosted into orbit.
1960 October 4 - . 17:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Courier 1B - . Mass: 230 kg (500 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Class: Technology. Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Courier. USAF Sat Cat: 58 . COSPAR: 1960-Nu-1. Apogee: 1,214 km (754 mi). Perigee: 967 km (600 mi). Inclination: 28.30 deg. Period: 107.10 min. Experimental communications. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1960 October 5 - . 16:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 6 - . 03:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control system malfunction during re-entry at 375 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 221 m..
1960 October 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 October 7 - . 15:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1960 October 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 11 - . 19:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). First E missile flown with MA-3 engine, unsuccessful.
1960 October 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 October 13 - . 09:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi). USAF Atlas launched at AMR placed nose cone containing three black mice 650 miles up and 5,000 miles downrange at 17,000 mph. Nose cone was recovered in target area near Ascension Island, the three mice surviving the flight in "good condition.".
1960 October 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 October 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Pad: 500NM. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Pad: 500NM. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Pad: 500NM. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Pad: 500NM. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 October 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 October 20 - . 16:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- LST test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Huntsville.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Jupiter missile Live System Test 217, the first to be fired under simulated tactical conditions using GSE prescribed for the Jupiter deployed to NATO I, was fired from AMR at 1102 hours EST. The missile successfully accomplished all primary and secondary missions. The nose cone impacted 1.1 nm over and 0.2 nm right of the pre-determined target 962.5 nm downrange.
1960 October 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 October 22 - . 05:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 October 24 - . 23:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan ICBM fired 6,100 miles / 9800 km, 100 miles longer than any previous shot, with tactical-type nose cone..
1960 October 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 November 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 November 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 November 3 - . 05:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II.
- Explorer 8 - . Payload: S-30. Mass: 41 kg (90 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Ionosphere satellite. Spacecraft: S-30. Decay Date: 2012-03-28 . USAF Sat Cat: 60 . COSPAR: 1960-Xi-1. Apogee: 1,331 km (827 mi). Perigee: 394 km (244 mi). Inclination: 49.90 deg. Period: 102.20 min. Ionospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1960 November 7 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1960 November 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Minuteman.
- First Minuteman Stage I flight test engine - . Thiokol Chemical Corporation delivered the first Minuteman Stage I flight test engine to Cape Canaveral..
1960 November 8 - . 13:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 November 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 November 10 - . 16:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Advanced Polaris (A-2) successfully launched on record 1,600-mile flight at AMR..
1960 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
1960 November 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 November 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 November 15 - . 05:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
1960 November 16 - . 18:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 November 17 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 November 21 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV. FAILURE: Engine cut off after 1 sec, vehicle fell back to the pad from a few centimeters height, but did not explode. This faulty ground-support circuitry had not been noted on some 60 previous Redstone firings.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Mercury MR-1 - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Spacecraft: Mercury. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). Suborbital launch attempt. After a four- or five-inch liftoff, MR-1 launched its escape tower but not the capsule. The undamaged spacecraft was recovered for reuse..
1960 November 23 - . 11:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Tiros 2 - . Payload: Tiros B (A-2). Mass: 130 kg (280 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. Decay Date: 2014-05-18 . USAF Sat Cat: 63 . COSPAR: 1960-Pi-1. Apogee: 610 km (370 mi). Perigee: 547 km (339 mi). Inclination: 48.50 deg. Period: 96.30 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1960 November 30 - . 01:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1960 November 30 - . 19:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Transit 3A - . Mass: 91 kg (200 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1960-11-30 . Destroyed by range safety; launched with Solrad 2. Thor shut down too early..
- Solrad 2 - . Payload: Grab B. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB. ELINT satellite..
1960 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Polaris A-2 successfully test fired 1,400 nautical miles down AMR..
1960 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC1. Launch Pad: LC1/2?. Launch Vehicle: Snark.
- Category IIE-11, Sta12 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). Final test flight of Snark..
1960 December 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 December 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1960 December 12 - . 18:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1960 December 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- Saturn transport barge commissioned. - . Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Palaemon, a 180-foot barge built to transport the Saturn launch vehicle from MSFC to Cape Canaveral by water, was formally accepted by MSFC Director from Maj. Gen. Frank S. Besson, Chief of Army Transportation..
1960 December 15 - . 09:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Able. FAILURE: Atlas exploded 70 seconds after liftoff.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Pioneer (P 31) - . Payload: Pioneer P 31 / Able VB. Mass: 175 kg (385 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Pioneer. Class: Moon. Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Pioneer P 3. Decay Date: 1960-12-15 . Apogee: 13 km (8 mi). The final launch in the Pioneer lunar probe program was unsuccessful; the Atlas-Able booster rocket went out of control and exploded at an altitude of 12,200 m off Cape Canaveral..
1960 December 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1960 December 19 - . 16:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV.
- Mercury MR-1A - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 210 km (130 mi).
Mercury-Redstone 1A (MR-1A) was launched from Cape Canaveral in a repeat of the November 21, 1960, mission and was completely successful. This was the third attempt to accomplish the objectives established for this flight. The first attempt on November 7, 1960, was canceled as a result of a helium leak in the spacecraft reaction control system relief valve, and on November 21, 1960, the mission could not be completed because of premature cut-off of the launch vehicle engines. Objectives of the MR-1A flight were to qualify the spacecraft for space flight and to qualify the flight system for a primate flight scheduled shortly thereafter. Close attention was given to the spacecraft-launch vehicle combination as it went through the various flight sequences: powered flight; acceleration and deceleration; performance of the posigrade rockets; performance of the recovery system; performance of the launch, tracking, and recovery phases of the operation; other events of the flight including retrorocket operation in a space environment; and operation of instrumentation. Except that the launch vehicle cut-off velocity was slightly higher than normal, all flight sequences were satisfactory; tower separation, spacecraft separation, spacecraft turnaround, retrofire, retropackage jettison, and landing system operation occurred or were controlled as planned. The spacecraft reached a maximum altitude of 130.68 statute miles, a range of 234.8 statute miles, and a speed of 4,909.1 miles per hour. Fifteen minutes after landing in the Atlantic Ocean, the recovery helicopter picked up the spacecraft to complete the successful flight mission.
1960 December 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1960 December 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1960 December 22 - . 18:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 January 6 - . 00:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 January 7 - . 17:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout I.
- HETS A1-1 Plasma / radio astronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
1961 January 10 - . 17:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 January 11 - . 18:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 January 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 January 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 January 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 January 18 - . 02:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. LV Family: Loki. Launch Vehicle: Loki Dart.
1961 January 20 - . 20:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 January 22 - . 02:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control system malfunction during re-entry at 370 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 788 m..
1961 January 23 - . 21:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
The flight testing of the Series D Atlas missiles was completed with the successful launch and flight of Atlas 90D from Cape Canaveral. This was the 32d Atlas D to be launched in the research and development series and the 55th Atlas missile to be flown since the first attempted launch on 11 June 1957. During the flight test series to date, 35 missiles were flown successfully and 20 were rated failures. Final test flight of USAF Atlas D traveled 5,000 miles to target down Atlantic Missile Range, representing 35 successes, 8 partials, and 6 failures in 49 test launchings for D model. 75th Atlas launched at AMR, successful
1961 January 24 - . 21:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 January 26 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 January 26 - . 01:57 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. LV Family: Loki. Launch Vehicle: Loki Dart.
1961 January 31 - . 16:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV.
- Mercury MR-2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 251 km (155 mi).
Ham, a 37-pound chimpanzee, was aboard the spacecraft. The over-acceleration of the launch vehicle coupled with the velocity of the escape rocket caused the spacecraft to attain a higher altitude and a longer range than planned. In addition, the early depletion of the liquid oxygen caused a signal that separated the spacecraft from the launch vehicle a few seconds early. However spacecraft recovery was effected, although there were some leaks and the spacecraft was taking on water. Ham appeared to be in good physiological condition, but sometime later when he was shown the spacecraft it was visually apparent that he had no further interest in cooperating with the space flight program. Despite the over-acceleration factor, the flight was considered to be successful.
1961 February 1 - . 15:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31A. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
At 1059 EST, the first Minuteman research and development flight test missile (FTM 401) was launched by the 6555th Test Wing from Pad 31 at the Atlantic Missile Range. All the missiles stages and subsystems were operational, marking the first time that the first flight test missile was launched with all systems and stages functioning. FTM 401 completed a 4,600-mile flight, and its reentry vehicle impacted in the designated target area. This was the most successful first flight recorded in the history of U.S. missile development.
1961 February 6 - . 21:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 February 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 February 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 February 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 February 10 - . 05:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 February 16 - . 01:27 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 February 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 February 21 - . 14:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-2 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Apogee: 182 km (113 mi).
Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) was launched from Cape Canaveral in a test to check maximum heating and its effects during the worst reentry design conditions. The flight closely matched the desired trajectory and attained a maximum altitude of 114.04 statute miles and a range of 1,431.6 statute miles. Inspection of the spacecraft aboard the recovery ship some 55 minutes after launch (actual flight time was 17.56 minutes) indicated that test objectives were met, since the structure and heat protection elements appeared to be in excellent condition. The flight control team obtained satisfactory data; and the complete launch computing and display system, operating for the first time in a flight, performed satisfactorily.
1961 February 22 - . 03:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 3B - .
Mass: 112 kg (246 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
Decay Date: 1961-02-22 . USAF Sat Cat: 87 . COSPAR: 1961-Eta-1. Apogee: 225 km (139 mi). Perigee: 135 km (83 mi). Inclination: 28.40 deg. Period: 88.10 min.
Lofti 1 piggyback payload did not separate. Nevertheless Transit 3B returned useful data needed for design of the operational satellites. It carried a digital clock driven by the same oscillator that drove the transmitters. It transmitted timing signals governed by the clock and a 384-bit memory. This allowed testing of the techniques for loading the memory from the ground, the ability of the memory to hold a message in orbit, and the ability to encode the memory contents by means of a frequency modulation on one of the main transmitters. It was also shown that ±60° phase modulation could be used to transmit the contents of the satellite memory without degradation of the accuracy of the Doppler signal and Doppler measurements.
- Lofti 1 - . Mass: 25 kg (55 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. Decay Date: 1961-03-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 87 . COSPAR: 1961-Eta-2. Apogee: 983 km (610 mi). Perigee: 188 km (116 mi). Inclination: 28.30 deg. Period: 96.40 min. Failed to separate from Transit 3B..
1961 February 24 - . 18:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). Atlas missile 9E made the first successful flight test of the Series E Atlas missile. First successful Atlas E flight..
1961 February 25 - . 00:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: Third Stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 3.
- Explorer - . Payload: S-45. Mass: 34 kg (74 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft Bus: P. Spacecraft: P-14. Decay Date: 1961-02-24 .
1961 February 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 March 1 - . 18:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). The fourth firing of an advanced Polaris A-2, and the first from a ship, was made by the U.S.S. Observation Island as she cruised at 8 knots, 10 miles offshore from Cape Canaveral..
1961 March 2 - . 05:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 March 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 March 3 - . 16:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout II.
1961 March 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 March 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 March 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 March 9 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Control system malfunction during re-entry at 374 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 358 m..
1961 March 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 March 14 - . 04:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 March 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 March 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 March 16 - . 01:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 March 23 - . 16:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 March 23 - . 19:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 March 23 - . 22:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 March 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 March 24 - . 17:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV.
- Mercury MR-BD - . Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Spacecraft: Mercury. Apogee: 181 km (112 mi). Suborbital test of Redstone modifications using a boilerplate Mercury capsule. The test was done at von Braun's insistence against Shepard's wishes, thereby putting the first US manned flight after Gagarin's..
1961 March 25 - . 01:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 March 25 - . 15:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Explorer 10 - . Payload: P-14. Mass: 35 kg (77 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft Bus: P. Spacecraft: P-14. Decay Date: 1961-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 98 . COSPAR: 1961-Kappa-1. Apogee: 181,100 km (112,500 mi). Perigee: 221 km (137 mi). Inclination: 33.00 deg. Period: 5,013.90 min. Magnetic field data. Decay date suspect Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B)..
1961 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 March 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 March 31 - . 19:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 April 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 April 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 April 11 - . 15:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 April 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 April 12 - . 06:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout II.
1961 April 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 April 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 April 21 - . 15:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 April 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- CTL - .
Nation: Italy.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Jupiter Missile Combat Training Launch 209, the first in a series of 12 CTL firings, was launched from AMR to a prescribed range of 1514 nm. The nose cone impacted .79 nm over and 2.19 nm right of the intended target. All missions were accomplished. The missile followed the intended flight path and performed within the accuracy requirements of the Jupiter system. IAF troops conducted the firing after LOD of MFSC completed the preliminary checkout. The primary mission of the test woe to evaluate the capabilities of launch crews under operational alert conditions.
1961 April 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 April 25 - . 16:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D. FAILURE: Destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: G.
- Mercury MA-3 - .
Payload: Mercury SC8. Mass: 1,355 kg (2,987 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Spacecraft: Mercury.
Decay Date: 1961-04-25 .
Mercury-Atlas 3 (MA-3) was launched from Cape Canaveral in an attempt to orbit the spacecraft with a 'mechanical astronaut' aboard. After lift-off, the launch vehicle failed to roll to a 70 degree heading and to pitch over into the proper trajectory. The abort-sensing system activated the escape rockets prior to the launch vehicle's destruction by the range safety officer after approximately 40 seconds of flight that had attained an altitude of 16,400 feet. The spacecraft then coasted up to 24,000 feet, deployed its parachutes, and landed in the Atlantic Ocean 2,000 yards north of the launch pad. The spacecraft was recovered and was found to have incurred only superficial damage; it was then shipped to McDonnell for refitting.
1961 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 April 27 - . 14:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II.
- Explorer 11 - . Payload: S-15. Mass: 37 kg (81 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: S-15. USAF Sat Cat: 107 . COSPAR: 1961-Nu-1. Apogee: 1,458 km (905 mi). Perigee: 480 km (290 mi). Inclination: 28.80 deg. Period: 104.50 min. Gamma ray data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1961 April 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 May 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 May 3 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 5 - . 14:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV.
- Mercury MR-3 - .
Call Sign: Freedom 7. Crew: Shepard.
Backup Crew: Grissom.
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MR-3.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Duration: 0.0107 days. Apogee: 187 km (116 mi).
Astronaut Alan B. Shepard, Jr., made the first United States manned space flight in a Mercury spacecraft launched from Cape Canaveral atop the Mercury-Redstone 3 (MR-3) vehicle. "Freedom 7" completed the suborbital, ballistic flight without incident in this historical first mission of NASA's Project Mercury. Alan Shepard first American in space, less than a month after Gagarin and only on a 15 minute suborbital flight. Only manned flight with original Mercury capsule design (tiny round porthole and periscope a la Vostok). If NASA had not listened to Von Braun, Shepard would have flown on the MR-BD flight of 24 March, beating Gagarin by three weeks and becoming the first man in space (though not in orbit). Shepard's capsule reached an altitude of 115.696 miles, range of 302 miles,and speed of 5,100 miles per hour. He demonstrated control of a vehicle during weightlessness and high G stresses. Recovery operations were perfect; there was no damage to the spacecraft; and Astronaut Shepard was in excellent condition.
1961 May 8 - . 17:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 May 9 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout I. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 May 13 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
1961 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 May 18 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone.
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Successful missile test. Missed aimpoint by 304 m..
1961 May 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Cape Canaveral first open house. - . Nation: USA. Cape Canaveral opened to the general public for the first time in its history..
1961 May 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 May 19 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 May 19 - . 14:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31A. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 May 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 May 24 - . 19:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26B. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Juno II. FAILURE: Second Stage failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: 2.
- Explorer S-45A - . Payload: S-45A. Mass: 33 kg (72 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft Bus: P. Spacecraft: P-14. Decay Date: 1961-05-24 .
1961 May 25 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 May 26 - . 02:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
1961 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 June 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LA. Launch Pad: LA?. Launch Vehicle: Matador.
1961 June 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- Saturn I transport route interdicted. - . Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Collapse of a lock in the Wheeler Dam below Huntsville on the Tennessee River interdicted the planned water route of the first Saturn space booster from Marshall Space Flight Center to Cape Canaveral on the barge Palaemon..
1961 June 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 June 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC34. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- Saturn I launch complex completed. - .
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: von Braun.
Program: Apollo.
Huge Saturn launch complex at Cape Canaveral dedicated in brief ceremony by NASA, construction of which was supervised by the Army Corps of Engineers. Giant gantry, weighing 2,800 tons and being 310 feet high, is largest movable land structure in North America.
1961 June 9 - . 05:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 June 12 - . 15:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 June 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 June 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 June 23 - . 03:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 June 24 - . 03:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I. FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).
Titan I (M-l) was the first Series M missile and first inertially-guided Titan missile to be launched from Cape Canaveral. Essentially a Titan I with a Titan II inertial guidance system, M-l was only a partial success due to a second stage hydraulic failure and loss of control after sustainer engine ignition.
1961 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- Saturn I barge replacement. - . Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. A Navy YFNB barge was obtained by NASA to serve as a replacement for the Palaemon in transporting of the Saturn booster to Cape Canaveral..
1961 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 June 27 - . 02:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC6. Launch Vehicle: Redstone. FAILURE: Air vane actuator malfunction at 262 sec..
- Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Apogee: 90 km (55 mi). Missile test failure. Missed aimpoint by 1,044 m..
1961 June 29 - . 04:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 4A - . Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Program: Transit. Class: Navigation. Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit. USAF Sat Cat: 116 . COSPAR: 1961-Omicron-1. Apogee: 986 km (612 mi). Perigee: 865 km (537 mi). Inclination: 66.80 deg. Period: 103.50 min. Transits 4A and 4B were drum-shaped instead of spherical to provide more space for solar cells. In addition, operational 150-and 400-MHz frequencies were used for the first time. Carried SNAP-3A nuclear power source..
- Injun 1 - . Mass: 25 kg (55 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Injun. USAF Sat Cat: 117 . COSPAR: 1961-Omicron-2. Apogee: 992 km (616 mi). Perigee: 869 km (539 mi). Inclination: 66.80 deg. Period: 103.60 min. Dual launch; failed to separate from Solrad 3; still returned radiation data. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A). .
- Solrad 3 - . Payload: Grab 2. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB. COSPAR: 1961-Omicron-xx. ELINT satellite, retransmitting to US ground stations signals from Soviet radar stations. Classified at time; official purpose and secondary payload collected solar radiation data..
1961 July 1 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 July 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 July 7 - . 04:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). Atlas missile 22E completed a flight of 7,863 nautical miles (9,050 statute miles), with the nose cone landing 1,000 miles southeast of Capetown, South Africa..
1961 July 12 - . 10:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Tiros 3 - . Payload: Tiros C (A-3). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 162 . COSPAR: 1961-Rho-1. Apogee: 790 km (490 mi). Perigee: 723 km (449 mi). Inclination: 47.90 deg. Period: 100.00 min. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1961 July 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 July 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 July 20 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 July 21 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 July 21 - . 12:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC5. LV Family: Redstone. Launch Vehicle: Redstone MRLV.
- Mercury MR-4 - .
Call Sign: Liberty Bell 7. Crew: Grissom.
Backup Crew: Glenn.
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MR-4.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Duration: 0.0108 days. Apogee: 189 km (117 mi).
The Mercury capsule, Liberty Bell 7, manned by Astronaut Virgil I. Grissom, boosted by a Redstone rocket, reached a peak altitude of 190.3 km and a speed of 8,335 km per hour. After a flight of 15 minutes and 37 seconds, the landing was made 487 km downrange from the launch site. The hatch blew while still in water, and the capsule sank; Grissom saved, though his suit was filling up with water through open oxygen inlet lines.
This was the second and final manned suborbital Mercury Redstone flight, and the first flight with trapezoidal window. Further suborbital flights (each astronaut was to make one as a training exercise) were cancelled. An attempt to recover the capsule in very deep water in 1994 not successful. It was finally raised in the summer of 1999.
1961 July 25 - . 19:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Titan missile M-2 completed the first full-range (4,342-NM) flight test of a Titan I equipped with an all-inertial guidance system. .
1961 July 27 - . 15:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31A. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1961 July 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Unions agree to no strikes at Cape Canaveral. - .
Nation: USA.
Related Persons: Kennedy.
At Cape Canaveral with the President's Missile Sites Labor Commission, Secretary of Labor Goldberg made public President Kennedy's message praising the voluntary, no-strike, no-lockout pledges covering labor-management relations at missile and space sites. The President's message stated that "the Nation cannot afford the luxury of avoidable delay in our missile and space program. Neither can we tolerate wasteful and expensive practices which add to the great financial burden our defense effort already places on us."
1961 July 31 - . 21:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
1961 August 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 August 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 August 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 August 5 - . 00:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- CTL - .
Nation: Italy.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The second Jupiter to be fired under the operational control of NATO troops in the Combat Training Launch program was fired from AMR at 1919 hours and 06 seconds EST to a range of 1,516 nm. The missile was originally scheduled for firing on 3 August but was postponed because of problems with the fuel probe in the fuel start tank and the micro-switch on the fuel pumping lever arm which controls the fuel flow rate. All missions assigned to the missile and to the NATO training launch crew were successfully accomplished.
1961 August 9 - . 04:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). The first Series F Atlas missile (2F) was successfully launched from Complex 13 at Cape Canaveral and completed its test flight. First F flight, at AMR), successful.
1961 August 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 August 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- First Saturn I arrives at Cape Canaveral. - . Nation: USA. Related Persons: von Braun. Program: Apollo. Navy barge Compromise, carrying first Saturn booster, stuck in the mud in the Indian River just south of Cape Canaveral. Released several hours later, the Saturn was delayed only 24 hours in its 2,200-mile journey from Huntsville..
1961 August 16 - . 03:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Explorer 12 - . Payload: EPE A (S-3). Mass: 38 kg (83 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: EPE. Decay Date: 1963-08-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 170 . COSPAR: 1961-Upsilon-1. Apogee: 76,620 km (47,600 mi). Perigee: 790 km (490 mi). Inclination: 33.40 deg. Period: 1,587.30 min. Radiation and solar wind data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1961 August 17 - . 14:29 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr.
- HETS Magnetosphere mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Apogee: 225,000 km (139,000 mi).
1961 August 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1961 August 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 August 23 - . 10:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. FAILURE: Agena B second stage failure.. Failed Stage: U.
- Ranger 1 - .
Payload: NASA P-32 (RA-1). Mass: 306 kg (674 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Ranger.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft Bus: Ranger.
Spacecraft: Ranger 1-2.
Decay Date: 1961-08-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 173 . COSPAR: 1961-Phi-1. Apogee: 446 km (277 mi). Perigee: 179 km (111 mi). Inclination: 32.90 deg. Period: 90.60 min.
Lunar probe; failed to leave Earth orbit. Ranger 1, a test version of the spacecraft which would attempt an unmanned crash landing on the moon, was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range by an Atlas-Agena B booster. The 306 kg spacecraft did not attain the scheduled extremely elongated orbit because of the misfiring of the Agena B rocket. Although the spacecraft systems were tested successfully, only part of the eight project experiments could be carried out. Ranger 1 reentered on August 29 after 111 orbits. Ranger 1's primary mission was to test the performance of those functions and parts that are necessary for carrying out subsequent lunar and planetary missions using essentially the same spacecraft design.
1961 August 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Merritt Island selected for Saturn V launch site. - .
Nation: USA.
Program: Apollo.
Spacecraft: Apollo Lunar Landing.
After considering Cape Canaveral, Cape Canaveral-Merritt Island, Mayaguana-Bahamas, Cumberland-Georgia, Brownville-Texas, Christmas Island, Hawaii, and White Sands, Merritt Island selected as launch site for manned lunar flights and other missions requiring Saturn and Nova class vehicles. Based upon national space goals announced by the President in May, NASA plans called for acquisition of 80,000 acres north and west of AFMTC, to be administered by the USAF as agent for NASA and as a part of the Atlantic Missile Range. Additional Details: here....
1961 August 30 - . 18:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). The first attempt to launch a Minuteman missile from an underground silo (Silo 32B) at the Atlantic Missile Range was a complete failure when the missile (FTM 404) exploded immediately after first stage ignition. .
1961 September 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 September 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 September 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Saturn V.
- Purchase of land for Saturn V launch facilities. - . Nation: USA. Program: Apollo. Authorization for NASA to acquire necessary land for additional launch facilities at Cape Canaveral was approved by the Senate..
1961 September 7 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan successfully launched from Atlantic Missile Range, making 6,100-mile flight..
1961 September 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 September 9 - . 01:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 September 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 September 13 - . 14:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-4 - .
Payload: Mercury SC8A. Mass: 1,200 kg (2,600 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Spacecraft: Mercury.
Decay Date: 1961-09-13 . USAF Sat Cat: 183 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Alpha-1. Apogee: 248 km (154 mi). Perigee: 156 km (96 mi). Inclination: 32.80 deg. Period: 88.40 min.
Mercury-Atlas 4 (MA-4) was launched from Cape Canaveral with special vibration and noise instrumentation and a mechanical crewman simulator aboard in addition to the normal spacecraft equipment. This was the first Mercury spacecraft to attain an earth orbit. The orbital apogee was 123 nautical miles and the perigee was 86 nautical miles. After one orbit, the spacecraft's orbital timing device triggered the retrograde rockets, and the spacecraft splashed in the Atlantic Ocean 161 miles east of Bermuda. Recovery was made by the USS Decatur. During the flight, only three slight deviations were noted - a small leak in the oxygen system; loss of voice contact over Australia; and the failure of an inverter in the environmental control system. Overall, the flight was highly successful: the Atlas booster performed well and demonstrated that it was ready for the manned flight, the spacecraft systems operated well, and the Mercury global tracking network and telemetry operated in an excellent manner and was ready to support manned orbital flight.
1961 September 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 September 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 September 29 - . 01:52 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 September 29 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 October 2 - . 18:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
1961 October 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 October 4 - . 14:22 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 October 5 - . 13:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,500 km (900 mi). USAF Atlas fired 9,000 miles for Atlantic Missile Range into Indian Ocean, carrying dummy nuclear warhead and a data capsule which was recovered..
1961 October 7 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). USAF Titan I launched from Cape Canaveral carrying Titan II guidance system..
1961 October 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 October 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 October 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 October 16 - . 14:54 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 October 23 - . 16:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). First underwater launching of Navy Polaris A-2, and first firing from submarine, U.S.S. Ethan Allen..
1961 October 24 - . 23:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 October 27 - . 15:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC34. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-1.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 136 km (84 mi).
Largest known rocket launch to date, the Saturn I 1st stage booster, successful on first test flight from Atlantic Missile Range. With its eight clustered engines developing almost 1.3 million pounds of thrust at launch, the Saturn (SA-1) hurled waterfilled dummy upper stages to an altitude of 84.8 miles and 214.7 miles down range. In a postlaunch statement, Administrator Webb said: "The flight today was a splendid demonstration of the strength of our national space program and an important milestone in the buildup of our national capacity to launch heavy payloads necessary to carry out the program projected by President Kennedy on May 25.".
1961 November 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 November 1 - . 15:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout II. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
- Mercury MS-1 - .
Payload: Radio Test Spacecraft. Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Technology.
Type: Tracking network technology satellite. Spacecraft: Radio Test Spacecraft,
Mercury.
Small satellite was to have verified the readiness of the worldwide Mercury tracking network. An attempt was made to launch Mercury-Scout 1 (MS-1) into orbit with a communications package further to qualify the radar tracking of the Mercury global network prior to manned orbital flight. Shortly after lift-off, the launch vehicle developed erratic motions and attending high aerodynamic loads, and was destroyed by the Range Safety Officer after 43 seconds of flight. No further attempts were planned. The Mercury-Atlas 4 (MA-4) mission and the successful Mercury-Atlas 5 (MA-5), flown on November 29, 1961, disclosed that the network met all requirements.
1961 November 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 November 3 - . 14:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
- Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Three Polaris A-2 missiles successfully fired within 3-hour period from submarine Ethan Allen..
1961 November 3 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 November 3 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 November 8 - . 16:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 November 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 November 10 - . 14:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E. FAILURE: Sustainer engine failed 15 seconds after launch.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test / Pod 13 chemical release - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi). USAF Atlas with capsule containing squirrel monkey destroyed by range safety officer at Atlantic Missile Range when main sustainer engine failed 15 seconds after launch..
1961 November 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 November 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1961 November 15 - . 22:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Transit 4B - .
Mass: 86 kg (189 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USN.
Program: Transit.
Class: Navigation.
Type: Navigation satellite. Spacecraft: Transit.
USAF Sat Cat: 202 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Eta-1. Apogee: 1,104 km (685 mi). Perigee: 953 km (592 mi). Inclination: 32.40 deg. Period: 105.70 min.
Together, Transits 4A and 4B allowed the determination of harmonics in the Earth's gravity field that had not yet been evaluated, and they also allowed firm navigational ties to be established from continent to continent as well as to isolated islands. As a result, it was discovered that the position of Hawaii was incorrect by 1 km. Carried SNAP 3 nuclear power source.
- TRAAC - . Mass: 109 kg (240 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRAAC. USAF Sat Cat: 205 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Eta-2. Apogee: 1,107 km (687 mi). Perigee: 956 km (594 mi). Inclination: 32.40 deg. Period: 105.80 min. Transit Research and Attitude Control. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1961 November 17 - . 15:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman flight test missile 405 was launched from Silo 32B at the Atlantic Missile Range and completed a flight of 2,993 nautical miles down the range. This was the first successful Minuteman launch from an underground silo. Silo launch, 10,000 km range.
1961 November 18 - . 08:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. FAILURE: Agena B Second Stage failed to restart.. Failed Stage: U.
- Ranger 2 - .
Payload: NASA P-33 (RA-2). Mass: 304 kg (670 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Ranger.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft Bus: Ranger.
Spacecraft: Ranger 1-2.
Decay Date: 1961-11-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 206 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Theta-1. Apogee: 242 km (150 mi). Perigee: 150 km (90 mi). Inclination: 33.30 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
This was a flight test of the Ranger spacecraft system designed for future lunar and interplanetary missions. The spacecraft was launched into a low earth parking orbit, but an inoperative roll gyro prevented Agena restart resulting in Ranger 2 being stranded in low earth orbit. The orbit decayed and the spacecraft reentered Earth's atmosphere on 20 November 1961.
1961 November 22 - . 00:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). BSD's 6555th ATWg at Cape Canaveral completed the first successful launch of a Titan I (J-22) by an entire Air Force crew..
1961 November 22 - . 21:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Pod 3, 22 test / ionosphere / aeronomy mission.
1961 November 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 November 29 - . 15:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-5 - .
Payload: Mercury SC9. Mass: 1,300 kg (2,800 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Spacecraft: Mercury.
Decay Date: 1961-11-29 . USAF Sat Cat: 208 . COSPAR: 1961-A-Iota-1. Apogee: 237 km (147 mi). Perigee: 158 km (98 mi). Inclination: 32.60 deg. Period: 88.30 min.
Atlas D (53D) was the first missile to be launched by SAC from Vandenberg in the operation test (Category III) launch program. Mercury-Atlas 5 (MA-5), the second and final orbital qualification of the spacecraft prior to manned flight was launched from Cape Canaveral with Enos, a 37.5 pound chimpanzee, aboard. Scheduled for three orbits, the spacecraft was returned to earth after two orbits due to the failure of a roll reaction jet and to the overheating of an inverter in the electrical system. Both of these difficulties could have been corrected had an astronaut been aboard. The spacecraft was recovered 255 miles southeast of Bermuda by the USS Stormes. During the flight, the chimpanzee performed psychomotor duties and upon recovery was found to be in excellent physical condition. The flight was termed highly successful and the Mercury spacecraft well qualified to support manned orbital flight.
1961 December 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral.
- Roksonde first Cape Launch. - .
Nation: USA.
Two Roksonde meteorological sounding rockets were successfully fired from Cape Canaveral, telemetered measurements of winds and temperatures at altitudes above 180,000 feet. Produced by Marquardt for the Army, Roksondes had already completed a series of tests at White Sands Missile Range and Pacific Missile Range.
1961 December 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1961 December 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
- P-27 - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: US Army.
Apogee: 250 km (150 mi).
Army fired its Pershing solid-fuel tactical missile from Cape Canaveral on a 200-mile flight, testing accuracy, warhead components, and blast and heat factors at launch in relation to operational crew protection. This was the seventh straight successful firing of the Pershing.
1961 December 1 - . 20:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
1961 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1961 December 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1961 December 6 - . 22:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- CTL - .
Nation: Italy.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
The third NATO operational control Combat Training Launch was fired from AMR at 1737 hours and 24 seconds EST to a prescribed range of 1,516 nm. The missile was well constrained to the intended flight path and within accuracy requirements of the Jupiter system. The missile impacted in the target area and all missions assigned to this test were successfully accomplished.
1961 December 12 - . 20:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1961 December 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC20. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 December 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
1961 December 18 - . 13:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1961 December 20 - . 03:32 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
- Research and development/Pod Test/Chemical release mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1961 December 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1961 December 21 - . 03:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Pod 15, 25 chemical release / ionosphere / meteorite mission.
1961 December 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 January 5 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 January 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 January 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 January 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 January 15 - . 11:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2D.
1962 January 16 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 January 23 - . 17:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 January 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 January 24 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: U.
- Lofti 2 - . Mass: 99 kg (218 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Lofti 2. Decay Date: 1962-01-24 . Carried 5 satellites..
- Solrad 4 - . Payload: Grab D. Mass: 18 kg (39 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: SIGINT. Spacecraft: GRAB. ELINT satellite..
- Surcal - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Radar calibration target. Spacecraft: Surcal.
1962 January 25 - . 03:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 January 25 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 January 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 January 26 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. FAILURE: Agena B second stage guidance system failure. Failed Stage: U.
- Ranger 3 - .
Payload: NASA P-34 (RA-3). Mass: 327 kg (720 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Ranger.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft Bus: Ranger.
Spacecraft: Ranger 3-4-5.
USAF Sat Cat: 221 . COSPAR: 1962-Alpha-1.
Lunar impact probe; missed the moon by 36,874 km and went into solar orbit. A malfunction in the booster guidance system resulted in excessive spacecraft speed. Reversed command signals caused the telemetry antenna to lose earth acquisition, and mid-course correction was not possible. Some useful data were obtained from the flight. Of four scientific experiments only one was partially completed: gamma-ray readings of the lunar surface. Attempts to relay television pictures of the moon and to bounce radar signals off the moon at close range were unsuccessful.
1962 January 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 January 29 - . 23:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC19. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan I.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). The 47th, and final, Titan I research and development flight test missile (M-7) was successfully fired from Cape Canaveral. Of the launches, 34 were rated successes, nine partials, and only four as failures. .
1962 January 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 February 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 February 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 February 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 February 8 - . 12:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Tiros 4 - . Payload: Tiros D (A-9). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 226 . COSPAR: 1962-Beta-1. Apogee: 812 km (504 mi). Perigee: 693 km (430 mi). Inclination: 48.30 deg. Period: 99.90 min. Returned 32593 cloud cover photos. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 February 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 February 13 - . 20:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas E.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,600 km (900 mi).
Atlas 40E, the 18th and last Atlas E research and development flight test missile to be launched from the Atlantic Missile Range, completed its programmed 7,000-mile flight downrange. Of the 18 missiles launched, nine were successes, seven partials, and two failures. Last Atlas E R&D flight.
1962 February 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 February 15 - . 15:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 February 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 February 20 - . 14:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-6 - .
Call Sign: Friendship 7. Crew: Glenn.
Backup Crew: Carpenter.
Payload: Mercury SC13. Mass: 1,355 kg (2,987 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MA-6.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Duration: 0.21 days. Decay Date: 1962-02-20 . USAF Sat Cat: 240 . COSPAR: 1962-Gamma-1. Apogee: 265 km (164 mi). Perigee: 159 km (98 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.60 min.
The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing launched the Mercury/Atlas D (MA-6), "Friendship 7," that placed the Mercury capsule containing LtColonel John Glenn, USMC, into orbit for the first Project Mercury manned orbital flight. "Friendship 7" completed three orbits before successful reentry and recovery in the Atlantic Ocean. First US manned orbital mission. John Glenn finally puts America in orbit. False landing bag deploy light led to reentry being started with retropack left in place on heat shield. It turned out that indicator light was false and a spectacular reentry ensued, with glowing chunks of the retropack whizzing by the window. After four hours and 43 minutes the spacecraft reentered the atmosphere and landed at 2:43 pm EST in the planned recovery area NE of the Island of Puerto Rico. All flight objectives were achieved. Glenn was reported to be in excellent condition. Beause of failure of one of the automatic systems, the astronaut took over manual control of the spacecraft during part of the flight. With this flight, the basic objectives of Project Mercury had been achieved.
1962 February 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 March 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 March 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 March 2 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 March 7 - . 16:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- OSO 1 - . Payload: OSO A (S-16). Mass: 208 kg (458 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: OSO. Decay Date: 1981-10-08 . USAF Sat Cat: 255 . COSPAR: 1962-Zeta-1. Apogee: 553 km (343 mi). Perigee: 522 km (324 mi). Inclination: 32.80 deg. Period: 95.30 min. Orbiting Solar Observatory; solar flare observations. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 March 8 - . 15:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 March 15 - . 11:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 March 16 - . 18:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing launched the first Titan II (XLGM-25C) research and development flight test missile (N-2) from Cape Canaveral. The Titan II was the most powerful ICBM yet launched by the U.S., its first stage engines generating 430,000 pounds of thrust and the second stage engine 100,000 pounds. The flight of N-2 also marked the first successful test of the AC Spark Plug inertial guidance system. The Air Force successfully launched a Titan II intercontinental ballistic missile. This was the first full-scale test of the vehicle; it flew 8000 km out over the Atlantic Ocean.
1962 March 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 March 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 April 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 April 9 - . 20:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
1962 April 12 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18B. Launch Pad: LC18B. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout I. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 April 18 - . 18:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- CTL - .
Nation: Turkey.
Agency: TUAF.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Combat Training Launch fired from AMR at 1317 hours and 54.1 seconds EST to a predicted impact point of 1,514 nm from the firing site. All functions of the flight were normal up to 153 seconds, at which time fuel depletion was reached and normal guidance cut-off was not achieved. The missile impacted approximately 230 miles short of the intended target. All missions assigned to the NATO training launch crew were accomplished.
1962 April 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52G. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 April 23 - . 20:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B.
- Ranger 4 - .
Mass: 328 kg (723 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Ranger.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft Bus: Ranger.
Spacecraft: Ranger 3-4-5.
Decay Date: 1962-04-26 . USAF Sat Cat: 280 . COSPAR: 1962-Mu-1.
The 6555th Aerospace Test Wing launched an Atlas D/Agena B vehicle that carried NASA's Ranger IV to the moon. This was the first U.S. instrument package to impact on the moon. Ranger IV was launched by an Atlas-Agena B booster from the Atlantic Missile Range, attained a parking orbit, and was fired into the proper lunar trajectory by the restart of the Agena B engine. Failure of a timer in the spacecraft payload caused loss of both internal and ground control over the vehicle. The Goldstone Tracking Station maintained contact with the spacecraft until it passed behind the left edge of the moon on April 26. It impacted at a speed of 9,617 km per hour, the first American spacecraft to land on the lunar surface. The Agena B second stage passed to the right of the moon and later went into orbit around the sun. Lunar photography objectives were not achieved.
1962 April 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 April 24 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 April 25 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC34. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-1.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 145 km (90 mi).
Second suborbital test of Saturn I. The Saturn SA-2 first stage booster was launched successfully from Cape Canaveral. The rocket was blown up intentionally and on schedule about 2.5 minutes after liftoff at an altitude of 65 miles, dumping the water ballast from the dummy second and third stages into the upper atmosphere. The experiment, Project Highwater, produced a massive ice cloud and lightning-like effects. The eight clustered H-1 engines in the first stage produced 1.3 million pounds of thrust and the maximum speed attained by the booster was 3,750 miles per hour. Modifications to decrease the slight fuel sloshing encountered near the end of the previous flight test were successful.
1962 April 25 - . 16:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 April 26 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Ariel 1 - . Payload: UK 1 (S-51). Mass: 60 kg (132 lb). Nation: UK. Agency: NASA. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: Ariel. Decay Date: 1976-03-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 285 . COSPAR: 1962-Omicron-1. Apogee: 1,203 km (747 mi). Perigee: 398 km (247 mi). Inclination: 53.80 deg. Period: 100.80 min. Ionospheric studies; returned X-ray, ionospheric, cosmic ray data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 May 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Atlas, Thor.
- Contract to the Thor DSV-2C. - .
Space Systems Division awarded a letter contract to the Douglas Aircraft Company for the design, development, fabrication, assembly, and pre-flight testing of one Douglas Space Vehicle 2C (DSV-2C). This was originally proposed by the company in June 1961. The DSV-2C, later SLV-2A in Air Force nomenclature, was the Thrust Augmented Thor (TAT) that was the first attempt to combine solid and liquid fuel engines in a single space booster. Intended to fill the gap between the basic Thor booster (LV-2) and the Atlas (SLV-3), the TAT was to use three TX-33-52 solid-pro-pellant Sergeant rocket motors installed around the engine section and attached to the three main thrust beams. Each of the solid-rocket motors would generate 54,500 pounds of thrust for 27 seconds after lift-off. This increased the total thrust of the vehicle to over 330,000 pounds, vastly improving its payload capabilities. The new TAT would have a 50 percent improvement in payload capacity since it could place 1,450 pounds into a 300-NM circular orbit when launched from Cape Canaveral - a 500-pound increase over the present Thor/Agena booster.
1962 May 4 - . 01:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 May 8 - . 19:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC36A. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Centaur. FAILURE: Vehicle exploded due to insulation problems on the Atlas.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 6.00 km (3.70 mi).
The first attempt to launch an Atlas/Centaur from the Atlantic Missile Range was unsuccessful when the Centaur stage blew up at T+55 seconds due to a second stage structural failure. Despite this failure, the launch marked the first U.S. use of a space vehicle fueled by a liquid hydrogen engine. First Centaur flight (unsuccessful).
1962 May 9 - . 13:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 May 9 - . 22:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 May 10 - . 12:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar. FAILURE: Able-Star failed to ignite.. Failed Stage: U.
- Anna 1A - . Payload: Anna 1A. Mass: 160 kg (350 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: US Army. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Anna. Decay Date: 1962-05-10 . USN, USAF, US Army, NASA joint program..
1962 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 May 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 May 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 May 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 May 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 May 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 May 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 May 24 - . 12:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-7 - .
Call Sign: Aurora 7. Crew: Carpenter.
Backup Crew: Schirra.
Payload: Mercury SC18. Mass: 1,349 kg (2,974 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MA-7.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Duration: 0.21 days. Decay Date: 1962-05-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 295 . COSPAR: 1962-Tau-1. Apogee: 260 km (160 mi). Perigee: 154 km (95 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.50 min.
BSD's 6555th Aerospace Test Wing launched Mercury/Atlas 7 (MA-7), "Aurora 7", into orbit carrying Navy Commander M. Scott Carpenter. This was the second U.S. manned orbital flight mission. Scott Carpenter in Aurora 7 is enthralled by his environment but uses too much orientation fuel. Yaw error and late retrofire caused the landing impact point to be over 300 km beyond the intended area and beyond radio range of the recovery forces. Landing occurred 4 hours and 56 minutes after liftoff. Astronaut Carpenter was later picked up safely by a helicopter after a long wait in the ocean and fears for his safety. NASA was not impressed and Carpenter left the agency soon thereafter to become an aquanaut.
1962 June 2 - . 19:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 June 2 - . 22:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 June 4 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 June 5 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 June 7 - . 18:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 June 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 June 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 June 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Asp.
1962 June 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 June 19 - . 12:19 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Tiros 5 - . Payload: Tiros E (A-50). Mass: 129 kg (284 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 309 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Alpha-1. Apogee: 880 km (540 mi). Perigee: 580 km (360 mi). Inclination: 58.10 deg. Period: 99.40 min. Returned 58226 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 June 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 June 29 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 June 29 - . 05:40 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). First Air Force crew launch.
1962 June 29 - . 14:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 10 - . 08:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Telstar 1 - .
Mass: 77 kg (169 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: ATT.
Class: Communications.
Type: Civilian communications satellite. Spacecraft: Telstar.
USAF Sat Cat: 340 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Epsilon-1. Apogee: 5,643 km (3,506 mi). Perigee: 945 km (587 mi). Inclination: 44.80 deg. Period: 157.80 min.
A NASA Thor/Delta boosted Telstar, the first commercially developed international communications satellite, into orbit. First commercial comsat; active repeater. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C).
1962 July 11 - . 18:51 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 July 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 July 12 - . 18:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 12 - . 20:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 18 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2D.
1962 July 21 - . 20:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 21 - . 22:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 21 - . 23:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 22 - . 09:21 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B. FAILURE: Destroyed by range safety.. Failed Stage: U.
- Mariner 1 - . Payload: Mariner R-1. Mass: 200 kg (440 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Mariner. Class: Venus. Type: Venus probe. Spacecraft Bus: Mariner. Spacecraft: Mariner 1-2. Decay Date: 1962-07-22 . Venus probe..
1962 July 25 - . 16:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 July 26 - . 17:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 July 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 598. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 August 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Combat training launch - . Nation: Italy. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1962 August 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1962 August 8 - . 19:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 August 9 - . 15:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 August 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 August 13 - . 22:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
1962 August 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 August 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 August 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 August 27 - . 06:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B.
- Mariner 2 - .
Payload: Mariner R-2. Mass: 201 kg (443 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Mariner.
Class: Venus.
Type: Venus probe. Spacecraft Bus: Mariner.
Spacecraft: Mariner 1-2.
USAF Sat Cat: 374 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Rho-1.
Mariner 2 was the first spacecraft to successfully flyby another planet. It was a backup for the Mariner 1 mission which failed shortly after launch to Venus. After launch and termination of the Agena first burn, the Agena-Mariner was in a 118 km altitude Earth parking orbit. The Agena second burn injected the Mariner 2 spacecraft into a geocentric escape hyperbola at 26 minutes 3 seconds after lift-off. Solar panel extension was completed about 44 minutes after launch. On 29 August 1962 cruise science experiments were turned on. A midcourse maneuver was initiated at 22:49:00 GMT on 4 September and completed at 2:45:25 GMT 5 September. On 8 September at 17:50 GMT the spacecraft suddenly lost its attitude control, which was restored by the gyroscopes 3 minutes later. The cause was unknown but may have been a collision with a small object. On October 31 the output from one solar panel deteriorated abruptly, and the science cruise instruments were turned off. A week later the panel resumed normal function and instruments were turned back on. The panel permanently failed on 15 November, but Mariner 2 was close enough to the Sun that one panel could supply adequate power. On December 14 the radiometers were turned on. Mariner 2 approached Venus from 30 degrees above the dark side of the planet, and passed below the planet at its closest distance of 34,773 km at 19:59:28 GMT 14 December 1962. After encounter, cruise mode resumed. Spacecraft perihelion occurred on 27 December at a distance of 105,464,560 km. The last transmission from Mariner 2 was received on 3 January 1963 at 07:00 GMT. Mariner 2 remains in heliocentric orbit. Scientific discoveries made by Mariner 2 included a slow retrograde rotation rate for Venus, hot surface temperatures and high surface pressures, a predominantly carbon dioxide atmosphere, continuous cloud cover with a top altitude of about 60 km, and no detectable magnetic field. It was also shown that in interplanetary space the solar wind streams continuously and the cosmic dust density is much lower than the near-Earth region. Improved estimates of Venus' mass and the value of the astronomical unit were made.
1962 September 6 - . 15:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1962 September 12 - . 15:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 September 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 September 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 September 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 September 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 September 18 - . 08:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta.
- Tiros 6 - . Payload: Tiros F2 (A-51). Mass: 127 kg (279 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 397 . COSPAR: 1962-A-Psi-1. Apogee: 654 km (406 mi). Perigee: 631 km (392 mi). Inclination: 58.30 deg. Period: 97.60 min. Returned 66674 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1962 September 19 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- Research and development / Pod 17 test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi). Atlas 8F, the seventh Series F R&D missile, was the 100th to be launched from Cape Canaveral since the first abortive launch on 11 June 1957 and the 145th Atlas to be launched from both Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg. .
1962 September 20 - . 04:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 September 25 - . 14:09 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 September 25 - . 20:28 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 October 2 - . 22:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta A.
- Explorer 14 - . Payload: EPE B (S-3A). Mass: 40 kg (88 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: EPE. Decay Date: 1964-12-31 . USAF Sat Cat: 432 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Gamma-1. Apogee: 96,229 km (59,793 mi). Perigee: 2,558 km (1,589 mi). Inclination: 42.30 deg. Period: 2,184.60 min. Magnetosphere studies. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 October 3 - . 12:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-8 - .
Call Sign: Sigma 7. Crew: Schirra.
Backup Crew: Cooper.
Payload: Mercury SC16. Mass: 1,374 kg (3,029 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Class: Manned.
Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MA-8.
Spacecraft: Mercury.
Duration: 0.38 days. Decay Date: 1962-10-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 433 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Delta-1. Apogee: 285 km (177 mi). Perigee: 153 km (95 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.80 min.
The Sigma 7 spacecraft with Astronaut Walter M. Schirra, Jr., as pilot was launched into orbit by a Mercury-Atlas vehicle from Atlantic Missile Range. In the most successful American manned space flight to date, Schirra traveled nearly six orbits, returning to earth at a predetermined point in the Pacific Ocean 9 hours, 13 minutes after liftoff. Within 40 minutes after landing, he and his spacecraft were safely aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Kearsarge. Schirra attempted and achieved a nearly perfect mission by sticking rigorously to mission plan.
1962 October 3 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 October 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 October 8 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 October 10 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 October 12 - . 16:24 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 October 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 October 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1962 October 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 October 18 - . 00:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 October 18 - . 16:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC12. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena B.
- Ranger 5 - .
Mass: 340 kg (740 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Program: Ranger.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft Bus: Ranger.
Spacecraft: Ranger 3-4-5.
USAF Sat Cat: 439 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Eta-1.
The Ranger V lunar probe was launched from Atlantic Missile Range by an Atlas-Agena B launch vehicle. The Agena B stage attained parking orbit and 25 minutes later reignited to send Ranger V toward the moon. A malfunction in the Agena B guidance system resulted in excessive spacecraft velocity. The spacecraft's solar cells did not provide power and reversed command signals caused the telemetry antenna to lose earth acquisition. This made reception of the flight-path correction signal impossible and rendering its television cameras useless. Reversed command signals caused the telemetry antenna to lose earth acquisition, and mid-course correction was not possible. The spacecraft missed the Moon by 725 km and went into solar orbit. Gamma-ray data were collected for 4 hours prior to the loss of power. Ranger V was to have relayed television pictures of the lunar surface and rough-landed an instrumented capsule containing a seismometer. The spacecraft was tracked for 8 hours, 44 minutes, before its small reserve battery went dead. Additional Details: here....
1962 October 19 - . 18:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
1962 October 19 - . 19:53 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 October 22 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. Launch Pad: LC30A TEL. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 October 26 - . 17:05 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 October 27 - . 23:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta A.
- Explorer 15 - . Payload: EPE C (S-3C SERB). Mass: 45 kg (99 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Program: Explorer. Class: Astronomy. Type: Solar satellite. Spacecraft: EPE. Decay Date: 1978-12-19 . USAF Sat Cat: 445 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Lambda-1. Apogee: 17,610 km (10,940 mi). Perigee: 306 km (190 mi). Inclination: 17.90 deg. Period: 314.70 min. Radiation decay data. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 October 29 - . 20:13 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 October 31 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 October 31 - . 08:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Ablestar.
- Anna 1B - . Mass: 161 kg (354 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USN. Class: Earth. Type: Geodetic satellite. Spacecraft: Anna. USAF Sat Cat: 446 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Mu-1. Apogee: 1,181 km (733 mi). Perigee: 1,075 km (667 mi). Inclination: 50.10 deg. Period: 107.90 min. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1962 November 1 - . 20:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 5 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 November 5 - . 21:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 6 - . 20:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 7 - . 19:43 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
1962 November 8 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 November 13 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 November 16 - . 17:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 16 - . 17:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC34. LV Family: Saturn I. Launch Vehicle: Saturn C-1.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 167 km (103 mi).
Third suborbital test of Saturn I. Saturn-Apollo 3 (Saturn C-1, later called Saturn I) was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range. Upper stages of the launch vehicle were filled with 23000 gallons of water to simulate the weight of live stages. At its peak altitude of 167 kilometers (104 miles), four minutes 53 seconds after launch, the rocket was detonated by explosives upon command from earth. The water was released into the ionosphere, forming a massive cloud of ice particles several miles in diameter. By this experiment, known as "Project Highwater," scientists had hoped to obtain data on atmospheric physics, but poor telemetry made the results questionable. The flight was the third straight success for the Saturn C-1 and the first with maximum fuel on board.
1962 November 16 - . 20:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 November 17 - . 17:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 November 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
1962 November 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 November 28 - . 18:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 December 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/2. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 December 4 - . 20:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 5 - . 21:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
The final Atlas F research and development flight test missile (21F) was launched down the Atlantic Missile Range. Ten missiles were launched in this series - seven were successes and three failures. The launch of Atlas 21F brought flight testing of Atlas operational missiles from Cape Canaveral to an end after almost five and one-half years. Since the first R&D Atlas was launched on 11 June 1957, 83 Atlas Series A through F missiles had been fired from the Cape - 52 of them successes or partials and 31 failures. Last Atlas F R&D flight.
1962 December 6 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 December 6 - . 20:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II. FAILURE: Failure.
- Mk 4 re-entry vehicle test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
Titan II flight N-11, the eighth in a series being conducted by the Air Force to develop the weapon system, was launched from Cape Canaveral. It carried a design change intended to reduce the amplitude of longitudinal oscillations which had appeared during first stage operation on all seven previous Titan II flights. This phenomenon, which subsequently became known as POGO, generated g-forces as high as nine in the first stage and over three at the position on the missile corresponding to the location of the spacecraft on the Gemini launch vehicle. Fearing the potentially adverse effect on astronaut performance of such superimposed g-forces, NASA established 0.25g at 11 cycles per second as the maximum level tolerable for Gemini flights. As a first try at solving the POGO problem, Titan II N-11 carried standpipes in each leg of the stage I oxidizer feed lines to interrupt the coupling between the missile's structure and its propulsion system. This coupling was presumed to be the cause of the instability. Postflight analysis, however, revealed that the POGO fix was unsuccessful; longitudinal oscillation had actually been multiplied by a factor of two.
1962 December 6 - . 21:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) flight test missile (FTM 424) was launched from Cape Canaveral. .
1962 December 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1962 December 10 - . 17:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/2. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1962 December 11 - . 20:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 13 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 13 - . 23:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Relay 1 - . Payload: NASA A-15. Mass: 78 kg (171 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA. Class: Technology. Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft: Relay. USAF Sat Cat: 503 . COSPAR: 1962-B-Upsilon-1. Apogee: 7,440 km (4,620 mi). Perigee: 1,319 km (819 mi). Inclination: 47.50 deg. Period: 185.10 min. Communications satellite technology tests. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1962 December 14 - . 19:36 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 15 - . 03:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1962 December 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1962 December 17 - . 20:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 18 - . 17:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 19 - . 07:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1962 December 19 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 19 - . 20:08 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1962 December 20 - . 19:47 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 21 - . 00:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A. FAILURE: Failure.
1962 December 21 - . 17:26 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1962 December 22 - . 14:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. Launch Pad: 29.0 N x 79.0 W. Launch Platform: B-52. LV Family: Skybolt. Launch Vehicle: Skybolt ALBM.
1962 December 28 - . 18:07 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 3 - . 19:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 3 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 4 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 7 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 January 9 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 January 10 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 11 - . 19:42 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 15 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 January 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 January 17 - . 21:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 18 - . 22:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 22 - . 19:46 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 23 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC26A. LV Family: Jupiter. Launch Vehicle: Jupiter IRBM.
- Combat training launch - . Nation: Italy. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1963 January 23 - . 18:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 January 28 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 January 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 January 31 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 February 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 February 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 February 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 February 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 February 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 599. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 February 6 - . 17:59 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Mk 6 re-entry vehicle test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Titan II (N-16) completed a 6,500-mile flight down the Atlantic Missile Range carrying the heaviest payload ever to travel that far on a U.S. missile..
1963 February 7 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 February 7 - . 17:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 February 11 - . 15:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 Feb 12? - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Pad: LC43D. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
1963 February 13 - . 18:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 February 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 February 14 - . 05:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Syncom 1 - .
Payload: Syncom 1. Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft Bus: HS 301.
Spacecraft: Syncom.
Completed Operations Date: 1963-02-14 . USAF Sat Cat: 553 . COSPAR: 1963-004A. Apogee: 36,739 km (22,828 mi). Perigee: 34,392 km (21,370 mi). Inclination: 33.30 deg. Period: 1,425.50 min.
During firing of the apogee kick motor, contact was lost with the satellite. Syncom (Synchronous Communications) was a NASA project supported by DoD ground stations and communications experiments. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Four score. Last known longitude (10 March 1987) 172.58 deg E drifting at 2.429 deg E per day.
1963 February 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 February 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 February 18 - . 14:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 February 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1A.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman FTM 421B was successfully launched from the Eastern Test Range by an all-Air Force crew, thus completing the Atlantic range test program for the Wing I configuration Minuteman missile (LGM-30A). .
1963 February 20 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 February 21 - . 17:58 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 618. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 February 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 February 27 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 1 - . 21:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- ABRES REX-I / Pod 1 Re-entry vehicle test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: ABRES. Apogee: 1,800 km (1,100 mi).
1963 March 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 March 7 - . 17:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 618. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 March 7 - . 18:49 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 618. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 March 8 - . 19:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 11 - . 21:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 12 - . 19:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 March 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 March 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 March 14 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 600. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 March 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 March 18 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 19 - . 01:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Pad: LC43D. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
1963 March 19 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 March 21 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 March 21 - . 15:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
1963 March 21 - . 19:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 22 - . 18:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 March 28 - . 18:02 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 28 - . 20:10 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 March 28 - . 20:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC34. Launch Vehicle: Saturn I.
- Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA.
Apogee: 129 km (80 mi).
Fourth suborbital test of Saturn I. The S-I Saturn stage reached an altitude of 129 kilometers (80 statute miles) and a peak velocity of 5,906 kilometers (3,660 miles) per hour. This was the last of four successful tests for the first stage of the Saturn I vehicle. After 100 seconds of flight, No. 5 of the booster's eight engines was cut off by a preset timer. That engine's propellants were rerouted to the remaining seven, which continued to burn. This experiment confirmed the "engine-out" capability that MSFC engineers had designed into the Saturn I.
1963 April 2 - . 19:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 April 3 - . 02:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Explorer 17 - . Payload: AE A (S-6). Mass: 185 kg (407 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Atmosphere satellite. Spacecraft: AE. Decay Date: 1966-11-24 . USAF Sat Cat: 564 . COSPAR: 1963-009A. Apogee: 891 km (553 mi). Perigee: 254 km (157 mi). Inclination: 57.60 deg. Period: 96.10 min. Atmospheric research. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 April 3 - . 19:20 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 5 - . 19:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 6 - . 00:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 April 8 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 April 10 - . 20:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 April 11 - . 04:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first successful launch of a fully operational Minuteman missile from Vandenberg by an Air Force crew was completed under simulated operational conditions. .
1963 April 11 - . 20:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 April 12 - . 19:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 15 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 16 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 17 - . 16:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 April 17 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 18 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 608. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 April 19 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II. FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle.
1963 April 22 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 April 24 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC30. LV Family: Pershing. Launch Vehicle: Pershing 1.
1963 April 26 - . 18:31 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 April 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D.
- LC 14 modifications - .
Nation: USA.
Final design review of complex 14 modifications and activation of facilities was held under the aegis of Air Force Space Systems Division (SSD) in Los Angeles. All drawings and specifications were accepted. SSD's activation of the complex was scheduled to begin January 1, 1964, with an estimated 10 months required to prepare complex 14 for Project Gemini Atlas-Agena launches.
1963 April 27 - . 02:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F.
- ABRES REX-II re-entry vehicle test flight - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: ABRES. Apogee: 1,400 km (800 mi).
1963 May 7 - . 11:38 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Telstar 2 - . Mass: 79 kg (174 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: ATT. Class: Communications. Type: Civilian communications satellite. Spacecraft: Telstar. USAF Sat Cat: 573 . COSPAR: 1963-013A. Apogee: 10,802 km (6,712 mi). Perigee: 972 km (603 mi). Inclination: 42.70 deg. Period: 225.30 min. Active repeater. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). .
1963 May 7 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 May 8 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 May 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II. FAILURE: Failure.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle..
1963 May 10 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 May 14 - . 21:35 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 May 15 - . 13:04 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC14. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas D.
- Mercury MA-9 - . Call Sign: Faith 7. Crew: Cooper. Backup Crew: Shepard. Payload: Mercury SC20. Mass: 1,376 kg (3,033 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Houston. Class: Manned. Type: Manned spacecraft. Flight: Mercury MA-9. Spacecraft: Mercury. Duration: 1.43 days. Decay Date: 1963-05-16 . USAF Sat Cat: 576 . COSPAR: 1963-015A. Apogee: 265 km (164 mi). Perigee: 163 km (101 mi). Inclination: 32.50 deg. Period: 88.70 min. Final Mercury mission, Faith 7, was piloted by Astronaut L. Gordon Cooper, Jr..
1963 May 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 May 18 - . 05:14 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC43. Launch Pad: LC43D. LV Family: Deacon. Launch Vehicle: Nike Cajun.
1963 May 18 - . 17:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 May 24 - . 17:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Mk 6 re-entry vehicle.
1963 May 29 - . 03:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 May 29 - . 16:56 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC16. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II. FAILURE: Failed 55 seconds after launch.. Failed Stage: 1.
- Research and development test - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Titan II flight N-20, the 19th in the series of Air Force research and development flights, was launched from Cape Canaveral. It carried oxidizer standpipes and fuel accumulators to suppress longitudinal oscillations (POGO). During the spring of 1963, static firings of this configuration had been successful enough to confirm the hypothesis that POGO was caused by coupling between the missile structure and its propulsion system, resulting in an unstable closed loop system. Standpipes and accumulators, by interrupting the coupling reduced the source of instability. Flight N-20 failed 55 seconds after launch and yielded no POGO data. Although the failure was not attributed to the installed POGO fix, Air Force Ballistics Systems Division decided officially that no further Titan II development flights would carry the POGO fix because so few test flights remained to qualify the weapon system operationally. This decision did not stand, however, and the POGO fix was flown again on N-25 (November 1), as well as on two later flights.
1963 June 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 601. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 5 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1963 June 6 - . 03:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 June 6 - . 16:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 June 7 - . 19:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 June 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
1963 June 12 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1963 June 13 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 616. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 June 13 - . 17:06 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 616. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 June 19 - . 09:50 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Tiros 7 - . Payload: Tiros G (A-52). Mass: 135 kg (297 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. Decay Date: 1994-06-03 . USAF Sat Cat: 604 . COSPAR: 1963-024A. Apogee: 349 km (216 mi). Perigee: 338 km (210 mi). Inclination: 58.20 deg. Period: 91.40 min. Returned over 150000 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1963 June 19 - . 20:45 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 June 21 - . 16:44 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 610. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 June 28 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/2. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1963 June 28 - . 02:34 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 July 1 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) Wing II configuration flight test missile to be launched from Cape Canaveral was launched from Silo 32B. .
1963 July 1 - . 18:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 July 2 - . 16:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 616. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 July 2 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 616. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 July 3 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 July 16 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 July 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC21/1. Launch Pad: LC21/pad?. LV Family: Matador. Launch Vehicle: Mace.
1963 July 17 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 July 19 - . 01:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 July 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 July 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 July 26 - . 14:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17A. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Syncom 2 - .
Mass: 39 kg (85 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Greenbelt.
Class: Technology.
Type: Communications technology satellite. Spacecraft Bus: HS 301.
Spacecraft: Syncom.
Completed Operations Date: 1969-04-01 . USAF Sat Cat: 634 . COSPAR: 1963-031A. Apogee: 35,891 km (22,301 mi). Perigee: 35,891 km (22,301 mi). Inclination: 32.70 deg. Period: 1,441.50 min.
NASA's Syncom II synchronous communications satellite was placed in orbit by a Thor/Delta launched from Cape Canaveral. Experimental commsat; first geosynchronous satellite. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C). Positioned in geosynchronous orbit at 55 deg W in 1963; 26 deg W in 1965. Last known longitude (19 July 1995) 68.47 deg E drifting at 0.089 deg W per day.
1963 July 26 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 July 30 - . 16:16 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC18A. Launch Pad: LC18A. LV Family: Scout. Launch Vehicle: Blue Scout Jr.
- OAR 22-1 / AFCRL-1 / 21 Plasma / radio astronomy mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 11,100 km (6,800 mi).
1963 July 31 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 August 5 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 August 7 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 August 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 617. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 9 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 617. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 17 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 611. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 August 21 - . 23:23 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Research and development / Pod T-202 test / plume study mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
Titan II development flight N-24 was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range. This was the first of five flight tests in the Gemini malfunction detection system (MDS) piggyback series. All MDS parameters were lost 81 seconds after liftoff because of a short circuit in the MDS. Operation in the second flight (N-25 on November 1) was normal except for two minor instrumentation problems. Three more test flights (N-29 on December 12, 1963; N-31 on January 15, 1964; and N-33 on March 23, 1964) verified the performance of the Gemini MDS under actual conditions of flight environment and engine operation.
1963 August 23 - . 17:01 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 617. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 23 - . 17:41 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 617. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 August 27 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 August 30 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 4 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 602. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A1.
1963 September 18 - . 09:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor DSV-2F.
- ASSET 1 re-entry vehicle test flight - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Apogee: 56 km (34 mi).
A Thor (SLV-2) booster lifted the first Aerothermodynamic/Elastic Structural Systems Environmental Tests (ASSET) program vehicle (ASV-1) on a successful suborbital flight from Cape Canaveral. The ASSET program was designed to test materials and study flight characteristics of glide reentry vehicles. SSD provided the boosters and launch services for the program, while Flight Dynamics Laboratory was responsible for overall program management. Suborbital test of small scale spaceplane model to test materials for the X-20 Dynasoar. Aero-thermodynamic structural test vehicle (ASV) for heat shield tests. Booster flew to peak altitude of 62 km, then pitched down, driving the spacecraft to separation at 59 km and 4,906 m/s. The spacecraft was sited under its parachute in the recovery zone at Ascension Island, but the flotation bag broke and it sank into the Atlantic.
1963 September 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 September 30 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 October 1 - . 19:39 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 619. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 1 - . 20:12 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 October 4 - . 04:18 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 October 9 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 October 11 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral AMR DZ. LV Family: Navaho. Launch Vehicle: Hound Dog.
- Operational test - . Nation: USA. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).
1963 October 16 - . 16:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 619. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 17 - . 02:37 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC13. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Agena D.
- Vela 2 - .
Payload: Vela 1B. Mass: 220 kg (480 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF.
Class: Surveillance.
Type: Nuclear detection surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Vela.
USAF Sat Cat: 674 . COSPAR: 1963-039A. Apogee: 116,582 km (72,440 mi). Perigee: 101,081 km (62,808 mi). Inclination: 38.70 deg. Period: 6,486.20 min.
Space Systems Division, acting.as program manager for the Defense Department, launched two Vela nuclear radiation detection satellites from Cape Canaveral aboard the first Atlas D/Agena D (SLV-3/SS-01A) launch vehicle (197D). The Vela satellites were developed and produced by the TRW Systems and were the first pair in a series of satellites designed to provide information on nuclear detonations in the atmosphere or in outer space to a distance of 100 million miles. The 297-pound satellites were placed in near-circular orbits approximately 70,000 miles above the Earth's surface. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A).
- TRS 5 - . Payload: ERS 12. Mass: 2.00 kg (4.40 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Technology. Type: Navigation technology satellite. Spacecraft: TRS. Decay Date: 1963-06-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 675 . COSPAR: 1963-039B. Apogee: 102,372 km (63,610 mi). Perigee: 953 km (592 mi). Inclination: 35.90 deg. Period: 2,319.40 min. Decay date suspect Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
- Vela 1 - . Payload: Vela 1A. Mass: 220 kg (480 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Class: Surveillance. Type: Nuclear detection surveillance satellite. Spacecraft: Vela. USAF Sat Cat: 692 . COSPAR: 1963-039C. Apogee: 116,528 km (72,407 mi). Perigee: 101,925 km (63,333 mi). Inclination: 37.80 deg. Period: 6,519.60 min. Space craft engaged in investigation of spaceflight techniques and technology (US Cat A)..
1963 October 22 - . 19:17 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 24 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 609. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 October 26 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 619. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 October 28 - . 03:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC11. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas F. FAILURE: Failure. Failed Stage: 1.
- ABRES WAC-1 / Pod 21 Reentry test / plume mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Spacecraft: ABRES. Apogee: 500 km (310 mi).
1963 October 28 - . 03:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. LV Family: Hydac. Launch Vehicle: Nike Javelin.
1963 October 30 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 October 31 - . 20:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 November 1 - . 20:15 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Research and development / Pod T test / plume study mission - .
Nation: USA.
Agency: USAF AFSC.
Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
Titan II development flight N-25 was launched from the Atlantic Missile Range. It carried the oxidizer surge chamber and fuel accumulator kit intended to reduce the amplitude of longitudinal vibration which had characterized earlier flights. NASA regarded 0.25g as the maximum level tolerable in manned space flight; this flight achieved a level of 0.22g, the first to fall within acceptable limits. Although the kit had been tested on only one flight, Gemini Project Office had sufficient confidence in it to decide, on November 6, to procure several more such kits for subsequent installation in Gemini launch vehicles. Two later Titan II development flights (N-29 on December 12, 1963, and N-31 on January 15, 1964) and the flight of Gemini-Titan 1 confirmed the validity of this decision. The required kits for the remaining Gemini launch vehicles were then procured.
1963 November 6 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 November 7 - . 17:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 November 11 - . 18:48 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 619. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 November 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC31B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
- Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Minuteman flight test missile with a first stage cylindrical skirt and a gas injection steering system was successfully flight tested. These were Wing VI technical innovations that would be introduced with the Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missile. .
1963 November 13 - . 20:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 November 15 - . 19:33 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 November 16 - . 16:55 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 619. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A2.
1963 November 20 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 November 21 - . 19:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 November 27 - . 02:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta C.
- Explorer 18 - . Payload: IMP A. Mass: 62 kg (136 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Explorer. Class: Earth. Type: Magnetosphere satellite. Spacecraft: IMP. Decay Date: 1965-11-30 . USAF Sat Cat: 693 . COSPAR: 1963-046A. Apogee: 197,616 km (122,792 mi). Perigee: 192 km (119 mi). Inclination: 33.30 deg. Period: 5,666.20 min. Radiation data; Interplanetary Monitoring Program. Spacecraft engaged in research and exploration of the upper atmosphere or outer space (US Cat B). .
1963 November 27 - . 19:03 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC36A. LV Family: Atlas. Launch Vehicle: Atlas Centaur.
- Atlas Centaur 2 - .
Payload: Centaur 2B. Mass: 4,620 kg (10,180 lb). Nation: USA.
Agency: NASA Cleveland.
Class: Moon.
Type: Lunar probe. Spacecraft: Surveyor.
USAF Sat Cat: 694 . COSPAR: 1963-047A. Apogee: 1,478 km (918 mi). Perigee: 469 km (291 mi). Inclination: 30.40 deg. Period: 104.60 min.
Launched from Cape Canaveral, Atlas/Centaur (AC-2) was the first successful use of the high-energy liquid hydrogen/ liquid oxygen Centaur upper stage vehicle developed for NASA by General Dynamics. The spent Centaur stage entered orbit. Launch vehicle test. Launch vehicle put dummy payload into geosynchronous transfer orbit. First successful Centaur (liquid hydrogen-fueled) flight.
1963 December 5 - . 20:25 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 December 10 - . 03:11 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC25A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1963 December 12 - . 01:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: EAG-154. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3. FAILURE: Failure.
1963 December 12 - . 20:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC15. LV Family: Titan. Launch Vehicle: Titan II.
- Research and development / Pod T test / plume study mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).
1963 December 19 - . 06:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC32B. LV Family: Minuteman. Launch Vehicle: Minuteman 1B.
1963 December 20 - . 17:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Vehicle: Nike.
1963 December 21 - . 09:30 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC17B. LV Family: Thor. Launch Vehicle: Thor Delta B.
- Tiros 8 - . Payload: Tiros H (A-53). Mass: 119 kg (262 lb). Nation: USA. Agency: NASA Greenbelt. Program: Tiros. Class: Earth. Type: Weather satellite. Spacecraft: Tiros. USAF Sat Cat: 716 . COSPAR: 1963-054A. Apogee: 705 km (438 mi). Perigee: 667 km (414 mi). Inclination: 58.50 deg. Period: 98.50 min. Returned more than 100,000 cloud cover images. Spacecraft engaged in practical applications and uses of space technology such as weather or communication (US Cat C)..
1964 January 8 - . 00:00 GMT - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral LC29A. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle: Polaris A3.
1964 January 13 - . Launch Site: Cape Canaveral. Launch Complex: Cape Canaveral ETR. Launch Platform: SSBN 623. LV Family: Polaris. Launch Vehicle